Cincinnati at Pittsburgh

The change of scenery and an opportunity may be just what Edinson Volquez needed. The Reds parted company with Josh Hamilton to bring Volquez over from the Rangers, and it may give them yet another live, young arm with electric stuff. Volquez punched out eight hitters in 5.1 innings in his first start for the Reds, allowing just one run. Paul Maholm picked up right where he left off last season with a 5.02 ERA as he allowed five runs in five innings in his first start. Last year, opponents scored six runs or more in half of his starts and that isn't conducive to winning many games, especially on a bad team. The Reds appear to be a much improved team while the Pirates are making their usual march to the basement at 3-6. Reds win this one on the road.