Pittsburgh Pirates series takeaways vs Cincinnati Reds

Jul 31, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Travis Ishikawa (30) is tagged out at home by Cincinnati Reds catcher Brayan Pena (29) in the sixth inning at Great American Ball Park. The Pirates won 5-4. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports

Game Two: Jeff Locke (5-6, 4.15 ERA) vs. Michael Lorenzen (3-5, 4.58 ERA)

Result: Pirates win 5-4

Winning Pitcher: Jeff Locke (6-6, 4.21 ERA)

Losing Pitcher: Michael Lorenzen (3-6, 4.80 ERA)

Save: Mark Melancon (33, 1.29 ERA)

• What went right:
  • Jung Ho Kang is so hot right now. He had another multi-hit game, going 3-4 with three doubles, an RBI, and two runs scored.
  • Jeff Locke had a solid, but unspectacular start, going five innings, allowing three runs on five hits, and striking out five.
  • Andrew McCutchen had a solid game, going 1-4 with a home run and a run scored.
  • Starling Marte saved the game with his defense in the ninth inning, throwing out Brandon Phillips at the plate and then making the game-winning catch to rob Marlon Byrd of a hit.

• What went wrong:
  • Outside of Kang, McCutchen, Marte, and Polanco, the offense was kept completely quiet.
  • Aramis Ramirez had another hitless game, going 0-4.
  • Ivan De Jesus had a solid game, going 1-4 with a home run and two RBIs.
  • Travis Ishikawa was thrown out at home to end the sixth inning.

The Pirates rebounded nicely against the Reds and looked to take a series lead with their ace on the mound.

Next: Game Three: Gerrit Cole vs. Raisel Iglesias