The Cincinnati Reds enter this week’s three-game set against the Los Angeles Angels still at 1.5 games back of a Wild Card spot, and every series from here on out feels like it could swing their season. With the Mets heading to D.C. to face the struggling 50-74 Nationals, the Reds can’t afford to let this opportunity slip. At minimum, Cincinnati needs to take two of three against the Angels to keep pace.
Game 1: Brady Singer vs. Victor Mederos
- Brady Singer (Reds) – 4.31 ERA
- Victor Mederos (Angels) – 5.63 ERA, just 8 career innings pitched
Game 1 sets up as a big advantage for Cincinnati. Singer has been up and down, but the Reds get to face Mederos, who has little big league experience and has struggled in his limited action. This is the type of matchup playoff teams have to capitalize on.
Game 2: Hunter Greene vs. Kyle Hendricks
- Hunter Greene (Reds) – 2.47 ERA
- Kyle Hendricks (Angels) – 4.88 ERA, 8.64 ERA in last 2 starts
If Cincinnati doesn’t seize Game 1, Game 2 provides another golden opportunity. Greene is returning from injury but was dominant in his first game back (6.0 IP, 0 ER 6 K, 0 BB), while Hendricks has been battered lately. The Reds’ offense should be in position to give Greene plenty of support here. (KNOCK ON WOOD)
Game 3: Nick Martinez vs. Yusei Kikuchi
- Nick Martinez (Reds) – 4.73 ERA Swingman looking to stabilize the rotation
- Yusei Kikuchi (Angels) – 3.52 ERA, but 5.10 ERA over the last month
The finale is where things tilt more toward the Angels. Kikuchi has been solid overall, though shaky of late. If the Reds’ bats show up, they can still steal this one — but this is the least favorable matchup of the series on paper. We know how the Reds typically perform against a solid left handed pitcher.
The Bottom Line
The Reds have a clear pitching edge in two of the three games, and with the Mets facing a weak Nationals team, this series feels like a must-win. Taking 2 of 3 keeps Cincinnati right in the thick of the playoff race — anything less, and the Reds risk falling behind at the wrong time.
