By the time this game rolls around, these teams will have clashed 12 times. Wednesday afternoon's contest will be the 13th and final meeting unless October dates are awaiting them. So far, the Milwaukee Brewers (56-45) have been in complete control of these matchups. The Cincinnati Reds (55-47) will hope to finish strong and better their odds at the division crown. American Family Field is hosting the last battle between the top of the NLC Central. The final first pitch is set for 2:10 p.m. EDT.
Yeli calls game.@ChristianYelich | #ThisMyCrew. pic.twitter.com/WqrXnfU8Ui
— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) July 25, 2023
Almost everything has gone Cincinnati's way since June began. Unless it involves the Brewers, who have kicked their teeth in consistently. This will be the Reds' last chance to get a head-to-head win as they trail Milwaukee in the division. It begins with the offense, which hasn't produced against the Brewers this year. Averaging 4.89 runs per game (9th) this season, the Reds only have 31 runs scored through 11 games against Milwaukee. This Cincinnati squad is incredible at getting on base and stealing bags. That plan hasn't worked against the one team they've needed it against the most.
Good luck robbing a ball hit 456 feet.@ellylacocoa18 pic.twitter.com/gdC66uMRm6
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) July 25, 2023
While the offense has faltered, Cincinnati's pitching staff has been better than usual against their NL Central foe. Ben Lively has had plenty of experience, starting three games against the Brewers entering Wednesday. In the two starts this month (which were back-to-back), Lively combined for 9.2 innings and two runs allowed. His only below-average start against Milwaukee came at home in early June. The best of the three starts was the only one in American Family Field, a performance he'll try to replicate before ceding to a solid bullpen.