3 biggest winners, 2 biggest losers from Reds Opening Day

Reds biggest Opening Day loser: Free-swinging hitters

So, congratulations to the Cincinnati Reds pitching staff for racking up 11 Ks. But the Pittsburgh Pirates pitchers put forth a terrific performance as well. The Buccos punched out 15 Reds batters on Opening Day.

Will Benson was victimized on four separate occasions, and Jose Barrero went down on strikes twice. Both players, but especially Benson, looked uncofortable in the batters' box. Hopefully those two will get things going the next time they take the field.

But Benson and Barrero represent the bottom of the batting order. More surprising might have been the three strikeouts from TJ Friedl. Even Wil Myers struck out twice on Opening Day. Even the normally reliable Tyler Stephenson looked off his game. While Stephenson logged just one strikeout, the Reds catcher left four men on base and grounded into a costly double-play in the first inning.

The Reds must be more disciplined at the dish this season. Without much power to speak of in the lineup, drawing walks, laying down the occasion bunt, and working the count are going to become key in order for this year's team to manufacture runs.

It's just one game, and the Cincinnati Reds still have a chance to win the series. Nick Lodolo will take the hill for Saturday's matchup and sophomore hurler Graham Ashcraft will toe the rubber on Sunday afternoon.