On Friday afternoon, the Cincinnati Reds (22-29) kicked off this weekend set with a resounding 9-0 victory over the Chicago Cubs (22-28). Dating back to last October, these teams have split wins in their last five meetings. Neither team has a winning record, but neither team is out of the NL Central race either. This series could prove important as each dugout pursues the top spot. The Friendly Confines known as Wrigley Field is hosting this three-game set, and this Saturday night game will be nationally televised. The first pitch is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. EDT in the North Side of Chicago.
Spence is hitting .429 during his 9-game hit streak??@spenc__er pic.twitter.com/Z6jRpEIG7T
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) May 26, 2023
Even after Friday's win, the Reds are only 8-15 in away contests this season. Getting to .500 on the road would work wonders for them as they fight for an open NL Central. Better pitching would help a lot too, although their home park doesn't do them any favors. Yesterday was a great start, as Cincinnati pitched 7.0 no-hit innings. Surprisingly it was their solid bullpen that's third in WAR that allowed the first hit. Hunter Greene dealt on Friday, and this time it's Brandon Williamson's turn. The Reds have won both of Williamson's starts this season, even if he hasn't pitched six full innings yet. He only has 10.0 big-league innings to his name, but it seems that Williamson's cutter will be the key to his success.
Untouchable pic.twitter.com/rAS0sV6fAY
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) May 26, 2023
Offensively, Cincinnati is 17th in runs per game, which is disappointing when factoring in Great American Ball Park. They're 28th in home runs and 24th in strikeout rate. The Reds have some good hitters, such as Jonathan India and Spencer Steer, but collectively the results aren't there. There may be a Joey Votto-sized hole in the lineup, but Cincinnati is testing bats for their future, which he probably won't be around for. Cincinnati's current group needs to figure things out.