Backed by Jung Ho Kang’s sixth-inning grand slam, the Pirates’ first slam of the year, left-hander J.A. Happ struck out 10 over six-plus innings and the Bucs held on late to secure a 5-4 win over the Reds on Wednesday night at Great American Ball Park.
With the win and the Cardinals’ 4-3 victory over the Cubs on Wednesday, the Pirates remained 4 1/2 games behind St. Louis in the National League Central standings and pulled three games ahead of Chicago in the NL Wild Card race.
“It’s just been good. I’m happy to be a part of this team,” said Happ, acquired from the Mariners before the non-waiver Trade Deadline. “We’re playing good baseball. Being a part of this group, it’s been fun. I’m looking forward to some more, for sure.”
The Reds made it interesting in the eighth inning — in more ways than one. A two-run rally cut the Pirates’ earlier 5-1 lead to just one run, and Joey Votto and manager Bryan Price were ejected during the middle of Votto’s at-bat. But setup man Tony Watson wiggled out of the jam, and Pirates closer Mark Melancon slammed the door with his Major League-leading 44th save.
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