Cincinnati Reds Face Chicago Cubs in Key Series Opener

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Cincinnati Reds will host the Chicago Cubs on Thursday, September 18, at Great American Ball Park. The first pitch is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. ET, kicking off a four-game series between the two teams. The Reds, currently at 76-76, are aiming for a wild card spot in the playoffs, while the Cubs, with an impressive record of 88-64, have already secured their playoff berth.

The Reds recently took two of three games against the St. Louis Cardinals, looking to maintain momentum. Meanwhile, the Cubs are riding a four-game winning streak after sweeping the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Bookmakers have made the Reds the favorites for this matchup with a moneyline of -143, while the Cubs are at +120 as underdogs. The contest’s total runs are set at 8.5, and Cincinnati is favored on the run line at -1.5, with odds of +142.

Reds manager David Bell highlighted the importance of this series, stating, “Every game counts for us right now. We need to capitalize on this opportunity at home.” The team is two games behind the New York Mets for the final wild card spot, with their sights set on a postseason push.

On the other hand, Cubs infielder Nico Hoerner is having a standout month, currently enjoying a 12-game hitting streak where he has hit .458. This performance has contributed to his season batting average of .303.

Starting pitchers for the game are Colin Rea for the Cubs and Hunter Greene for the Reds. Rea boasts a 4.23 ERA this season, while Greene has a strong 3.01 ERA. Both teams are looking to their pitchers to set the tone early in this crucial series.

With stakes high for both teams, the excitement is palpable as fans gear up for what promises to be a thrilling contest. The Reds need a win to enhance their playoff hopes, while the Cubs aim to continue their winning streak and solidify their position in the postseason.