Atlanta Braves vs
Cincinnati RedsPredictions & Preview

Cincinnati Reds Aim to Secure Playoff Spot as They Face Injured Atlanta Braves in Weekend Series

In this article, we provide a prediction for the middle game of the weekend series between the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds. Both teams are looking to gain positive momentum as they face off at the Great American Ball Park. Atlanta recently closed a series against the Royals with a 1-0 loss in extra innings, while Cincinnati avoided a sweep against the Dodgers with a 5-2 victory. This prediction was made before the conclusion of the first game of the series on Thursday night. For more MLB insights, be sure to follow our coverage.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Braves +105 | Reds -121
• Spread: Braves +1.5 (-192) | Reds -1.5 (+158)
• Total: Over/Under 9 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Cincinnati will win straight-up is 55%.

Atlanta Braves

The Atlanta Braves faced the Kansas City Royals in interleague action, where they received a strong pitching performance but struggled to generate offense, resulting in a loss. The team currently stands at a record of 45-62, placing them fourth in the NL East and 16 games behind the division leader. Additionally, they are 14 games behind the Padres for the final wild card spot in the National League playoff race. In the recent game, the Braves had difficulty with runners in scoring position, leaving seven on base and only managing five hits. Pitcher Joey Wentz delivered a solid performance, pitching 6.2 scoreless frames, but reliever Daysbel Hernandez ultimately took the loss. Bryce Elder will be starting in the upcoming game, looking to improve on his 4-7 record and 6.29 ERA this season. Despite a recent tough outing, Elder had a strong performance in his last start against the Reds earlier in the year. This will be his first time pitching at the Great American Ball Park.

Cincinnati Reds

The Cincinnati Reds bounced back from a two-game slide to win for the fifth time in seven games, avoiding a sweep at the hands of the Dodgers Wednesday night. The Reds currently stand third in the NL Central with a record of 57-52, 7.5 games behind the Brewers for first place. They are also three games behind the Padres for the final wild card spot in the NL playoff picture. In their recent game against Los Angeles, the Reds totaled eight hits with Spencer Steer and Santiago Espinal each picking up a pair. Nick Martinez threw a solid six innings, but did not factor in the decision. Scott Barlow earned the win in relief, and Tony Santillan picked up his third save. Brady Singer will start for the Reds, with an 8-8 record and a 4.60 ERA this season. Singer earned a win in his last start and will be making his fourth career start against the Braves. He has a 5-4 record with a 3.36 ERA at the Great American Ball Park.

Atlanta Braves Struggle with Injuries and Underperformance as Cincinnati Reds Look to Secure Playoffs Spot

The Atlanta Braves have faced challenges throughout the season due to injuries and underperforming players, resulting in a disappointing campaign. Unfortunately, all four starting pitchers for the Braves in the initial series are currently sidelined. Despite winning two of his last three starts, Elder has struggled with an ERA over eight and a WHIP over two during that time. On the other hand, the Cincinnati Reds are actively vying for a spot in the NL wild card race, making it crucial for them to secure victories against struggling opponents. Although Singer's performance has fluctuated in recent games, the Reds are considered the stronger team and are currently carrying momentum. Therefore, it is recommended to support the Reds in this matchup as they have the advantage playing at home.

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