MLB Note - Cincinnati Reds Romano, Sal

Sep 17, 2017 - 9:23 AM RHP Sal Romano allowed only five hits with six strikeouts over a career-high eight shutout innings in a 2-1 victory over the Pirates at Great American Ball Park. The Reds are rebuilding around a stockpile of young pitching, including Romano (5-6), who is among several youngsters hoping to be in the mix for the 2018 rotation. Only one Pirate advanced past first base against Romano on Saturday. "He doesn't lack confidence," Reds manager Bryan Price said. "He's so focused on the task at hand. He has matured quickly since he's been here." Romano needed 38 pitches to get through the first two innings, but cruised through the next six innings by trusting the defense behind him and a solid mix of three pitches. "I felt like I got into a good rhythm," Romano said. "Good fastball command. I through my curveball for strikes. Changeup has been good for me."