Reds Put Season-Best Win Streak on Line vs. Cubs
The Cincinnati Reds are on a season-best six-game winning streak while the visiting Chicago Cubs are battling a prolonged slump as the teams prepare to meet again on Saturday.
Introduction
The Cincinnati Reds have been riding an influx of progress with a six-game series of wins, standing out forcefully from the Chicago Fledglings’ new battles. Saturday’s matchup promises to be crucial, with the Reds attempting to extend their streak and the Cubs attempting to reverse their fortunes. We should plunge into the subtleties of the new games, key exhibitions, and impending matchups.
Reds’ Recent Success
Key Performances in Friday’s Game
Tyler Stephenson’s crucial two-run, two-out double in the fourth inning and Nick Lodolo’s six strong innings of one-run pitching helped the Reds win 3-2 on Friday.
Stephenson’s Contributions
Stephenson also highlighted the importance of rookie Blake Dunn, who doubled for his first major league hit and scored on a Stuart Fairchild single. “That’s what we’ve been all about, really the past year,” Stephenson said. “So proud of him for coming in, making the statement there and then still coming in and getting that run. It was all around a great effort.”
Closing the Game
Alexis Diaz allowed a run in the ninth but managed to secure his 13th save in 15 chances by striking out Patrick Wisdom with the tying run on second base. “Might as well make it interesting,” Stephenson remarked on the tense finish.
Cubs’ Struggles and Injuries
Recent Slump
The Cubs have lost 11 of their last 15 games, adding to their woes with injuries to key players.
Nico Hoerner’s Injury
Second baseman Nico Hoerner was deemed day-to-day with a right hand injury after being hit by a 96 mph fastball from Reds pitcher Hunter Greene. Although X-rays were “somewhat inconclusive,” Hoerner is undergoing further tests. He appeared as a pinch runner on Friday but is struggling with gripping a bat.
Seiya Suzuki’s Injury
Right fielder Seiya Suzuki exited the game due to a lower left back injury after being hit by a throw and later taking an awkward swing. His status remains uncertain as the Cubs cope with the loss of another regular player.
Pitching Adjustments
The Cubs activated Jordan Wicks from the 15-day disabled list and added him to the bullpen. Chief Craig Counsell referenced that Wicks, recuperating from a left lower arm strain, will be accessible in the warm up area until further notice.
Upcoming Pitching Matchups
Reds’ Starting Pitcher
The Reds will send left-hander Andrew Abbott (4-5, 3.39 Period) to the hill on Saturday. In a recent 13-3 victory against Colorado, Abbott pitched six innings and gave up seven hits and three runs. He has no record in two previous starts against the Cubs, with five runs and nine hits allowed over 9 2/3 innings.
Cubs’ Starting Pitcher
Ben Brown, a right-handed pitcher with a record of 1-2 and a 3.33 earned run average, will serve as the Cubs’ counterpunch. In his most recent outing against the Reds, Brown struggled, giving up five runs on six hits in five innings. This game denoted his most memorable vocation start against Cincinnati.
Conclusion
The Chicago Cubs are eager to overcome their recent difficulties and injuries as the Cincinnati Reds continue their quest to extend their winning streak. With Andrew Abbott and Ben Earthy colored set to pitch, the game vows to be a pivotal challenge for the two groups. The Reds will look to maintain their momentum, while the Cubs aim to find stability amidst a challenging period.