Pirates’ VanMeter struggles as catcher, Reds-Bucs split DH

CInCInnaTI – Josh VanMeter had just one thought when he suddenly realized the Pittsburgh Pirates needed him as a catcher. “Pure panic,” he said.

Forced into an emergency role, VanMeter had a rough time Saturday when he moved from second base for his first try behind the plate since he was a teenager. The Cincinnati Reds took advantage to end a nine-game losing streak, beating the Pirates 9-2 in the opener of a doubleheader.

In the nightcap, Ke’Bryan

Hayes hit a two-run homer and yoshi Tsutsugo and diego Castillo had back-to-back home runs as Pittsburgh won 8-5 for a split.

VanMeter did not play in the second game after his position switch in the first game.

“It’s part of the job. They asked me to do it, and I did it to the best of my ability. I didn’t feel too bad back there,” VanMeter said.

“Hopefully, I won’t have to do it again,” he added.