Aaron Nola looks for his first win tonight against the Reds
Aaron Nola makes his home season debut on Tuesday as he and the Phillies look to take the second of a three-game slate from the Reds at Citizens Bank Park.

Nola tossed five innings in a no-decision last weekend in New York.

“I had to battle. Command wasn’t there, I had four walks. But it was a grind. I wanted to keep the team in it as long as possible,” Nola said to reporters after his last start. “I could’ve went a little more, but it was a good decision. I was creeping up in my pitch count.”

Nola has had success over his career against Cincinnati, posting a 3.15 ERA over three career starts.

Opposing Nola is right-hander Homer Bailey who surrendered five runs on seven hits in 4 2/3 innings last week against the Pirates. He is 1-4 with a 3.97 ERA in 10 career starts against the Phillies.

Last Night
Ben Lively struggled early, but Nick Williams hit a pinch-hit solo shot in the eighth to break a tie and ultimately give the Phillies a 6-5 win over the Reds. Scott Kingery also homered in the contest, marking his first at the Major League level.

Hot Hoskins
According to the Elias Sports Bureau, Rhys Hoskins is the only player who has debuted since 1900 with at least 20 home runs and 45 walks in his first 250 career plate appearances. So far this year he's hitting .429 over nine games with a pair of dingers and nine RBIs.

Safe and Secure
Hector Neris secured his first save of the season on Monday to convert on his 21st consecutive save opportunity. Since faltering last on June 21 he's tossed 20 2/3 innings and posted a 1.31 ERA.

Tonight's Lineup
1. Cesar Hernandez 4
2. Carlos Santana 3
3. Odubel Herrera 8
4. Rhys Hoskins 7
5. Nick Williams 9
6. Scott Kingery 5
7. Jorge Alfaro 2
8. J.P. Crawford 6
9. Aaron Nola 1
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Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PGordonPBR

BY PATRICK GORDON
Managing Editor
pgordon@philadelphiabaseballreview.com

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