Gerrit Cole finally looked human.
So, too, does the Pirates’ previously indomitable rotation.
A fifth straight disappointing start resulted in a 5-2 loss to the Reds on Wednesday at PNC Park, and this one saw the staff ace endure one of the worst outings of his career in allowing five runs and eight hits over 4 2/3 innings and a gaudy 106 pitches.
“They were selectively aggressive,” Cole said of the Cincinnati lineup. “I wouldn’t say they were guessing. But when they got a pitch they were looking for, they put good swings on the ball. That’s what they’re supposed to do.”
What is it about the Reds, against whom Cole is now 0-3 with a 5.78 ERA in five meetings?
“I couldn’t put guys away,” he said. “They’re tough. They’ve got professional hitters. Joey Votto. Todd Frazier. Marlon Byrd.”
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