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Reds, Cards Both Surging Ahead of Series Opener
Recent Team Performance
The Cincinnati Reds are fresh off their first series sweep in over a month, capped by a 4-1 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Sunday. Jonathan India and Nick Martini each drove in two runs, helping the Reds showcase their potential. “It shows what we’re capable of doing when we play well,” Reds manager David Bell said. “We know that about ourselves. We believe that we absolutely have to go out and show it. It’s nice to see for our team and our players, just fighting to shift the energy around.”
The St. Louis Cardinals are also on a roll, coming off a tight 4-3 win against the Chicago Cubs on Sunday. Paul Goldschmidt had a standout game with two home runs and four RBIs, while center fielder Michael Siani made a crucial diving catch in the eighth inning. “I’m not sure if people realize how good he’s been in center field,” St. Louis manager Oliver Marmol said of Siani. “This kid is really good out there, and he’s taking some good at-bats for us, too.”
Pitching Matchup
For the series opener, Cincinnati is expected to activate left-hander Nick Lodolo (3-2, 3.34 ERA) from the injured list. Lodolo would be making his first start since May 11, when he allowed four runs over six innings in a loss to the San Francisco Giants. Paul Goldschmidt has had success against Lodolo, going 3-for-5 with a home run. Lodolo is 1-1 with a 7.04 ERA in two career starts against the Cardinals.
On the mound for the Cardinals will be right-hander Lance Lynn (2-2, 3.68 ERA). Lynn allowed one unearned run over six innings in a victory over the Baltimore Orioles last Tuesday, bouncing back from a rough patch where he went 0-2 with a 7.36 ERA in his previous three starts. In his career against the Reds, Lynn is 12-4 with a 3.29 ERA in 22 appearances (19 starts).
Key Players and Injury Updates
Reds third baseman Jeimer Candelario is expected to be available after missing the last two games with a stiff neck. Cincinnati is hoping to make a move up the standings, with 23 of their next 31 games against division rivals. “When you’re playing in the division, these games are obviously a little more intense, a little bit more personal,” Reds outfielder Will Benson said. “I think we’re going to match that level of intensity. I hope we do.”
The Cardinals are bringing a couple of hot hitters into the series. Shortstop Masyn Winn has a 15-game hitting streak, and outfielder Alec Burleson has hit safely in 10 straight games. The team is also keeping an eye on right fielder Lars Nootbaar, who was scratched from Sunday’s lineup with a hamstring injury. Manager Marmol mentioned the move was precautionary.
Conclusion
As the Reds and Cardinals gear up for their series opener, both teams are riding high on recent successes. With key players returning from injuries and others on impressive streaks, the upcoming games promise to be competitive and thrilling. Baseball fans can look forward to an exciting series between two teams eager to extend their winning ways.
