NL Central Showdown: Reds Face Cardinals in Critical Three-Game Series
The Cincinnati Reds face the St. Louis Cardinals in a crucial three-game series at Busch Stadium, starting Friday at 8:15 pm EST, followed by afternoon games Saturday and Sunday at 2:15 pm.
Recent Performance
- Reds: Split recent series with Diamondbacks, won 4 of last 10
- Cardinals: Swept by Rays, 5-5 in last 10 games
- Standings: Cardinals 0.5 games out of first, Reds 12 games back
Betting Overview
- Spread: Cardinals -1.5 (favorites)
- Cardinals odds: -185
- Reds odds: +115
- Over/Under: 8 runs (-110 both ways)
- Recent ATS: Both teams 2-3 in last 5 games
Pitching Matchup
- Reds: Luis Castillo (2-3, 3.55 ERA, 34 K)
- Last start: Loss, 3 ER, 6 H, 6 BB in 6.1 innings
- Cardinals: Andre Pallante (1-0, 1.23 ERA)
- Previous start: No decision, 1 ER, 4 H in 4 innings
Analysis St. Louis holds the advantage for this series with home-field advantage and superior overall team performance. The Cardinals' push for division leadership adds motivation, while the Reds' inconsistent play makes them harder to back. Expect the Cardinals to control this series, particularly in the opener.
St. Louis Cardinals vs Cincinnati Reds
Note: The Reds will need significant offensive production to compete in this matchup.
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