Now this is a sporting theater we can't wait to see unfold! Reds are pushing their luck at the Oriole Park, notorious for its tendency to lean towards the batters. But press pause on your presumptions, because, despite the numbers, this isn't necessarily an uphill climb for the Reds, although I’m sure some of you might say the Orioles have the high ground.
Take a look at the pitcher's duel. Cincinnati is tossing their new found gem, Andrew Abbott onto the mound. With a stellar ERA of 1.80, and a beaut of WHIP at 0.80, this season he's sure made batters break a sweat. Moving to Baltimore's side, their pitching arsenal boasts Cade Povich, whose 5.66 ERA this season isn't exactly what I'd call a threat.
Let's crunch the player stats, shall we? The Reds are marching in with Lux, Trevino, and De La Cruz as their batting vanguards. De La Cruz, of course, was the hot topic of conversation last season. The Orioles, however, are not exactly at a disadvantage with Urias, O'Hearn, and Mullins. Who knew the last month would see Mullins hitting .291, landing 17 RBIs with 4 homers? Remarkable!
Past run-ins of these birds and riders are a mixed bag. The most recent trio of matches saw the Orioles sweep the Reds off their feet, a rather interesting turn from the Reds triumph during their 2023 Baltimore visit.
Of course, a glance at their Regular Season Records and the most Recent Results reveals a rather colorful palette. Reds, currently 9-10, have been struggling to find their mojo, but recent victories against Pittsburgh brings a slice of optimism. Comparably, the Orioles also spoiling at 7-10 haven’t been setting the scoreboards on fire, but have struck a victory chord against Cleveland recently.
So, what's the take-home here? Friends, brace yourselves - we have a storm brewing. Once the dust settles, let's be prepared for the song of the Orioles echoing at the Camden Yards.
Albert’s Prediction: Baltimore Orioles by 2