PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates came into their series opener vs. the Cincinnati Reds at PNC Park on May 1 with a season-long five game losing streak, but right-handed starting pitcher Mitch Keller made sure that didn't go on any longer.

Keller threw seven innings for the Pirates, allowing just three hits, an earned run and a walk, while posting six strikeouts, as they took down their divisional foe 9-1 to get back to winning ways.

It was another start for Keller where he took control of the game early on and didn't give the Reds much of anything at the plate, getting ground balls and fly outs, while also tying his season-high in strikeouts.

The Pirates needed someone to step up and deliver for them and their veteran starter was the one person they relied on to do just that.

Why the Pirates Needed This Start from Keller

Keller was the last Pirates starter that pitched in a game the team won, a 6-3 win in extra innings over the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field on April 25, where he threw…