CINCINNATI —

A sensational starting pitching performance from left-hander Nick Lodolo helped the Cincinnati Reds avoid a sweep against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Thursday, boosting their chances in the National League wild card race.

Right fielder Noelvi Marte took away what would have been a game-tying home run in the top of the ninth inning, preserving a 2-1 lead. Advertisement This content is imported from Twitter. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

With the New York Mets' win over the Chicago Cubs Thursday night, the Reds remain one game behind in the race for the third NL wild card spot. The Arizona Diamondbacks are two games behind the Mets.

Lodolo went 6.1 innings, tied a career-high with

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