Arizona Diamondbacks by 2
Alright, we've got a solid, middle-of-the-pack scuffle lined up here folks, Arizona Diamondbacks squaring off with the Cincinnati Reds, a real toss-up and a perfect way to make or break your wallet betting-wise.
Let's begin with our knights of the mound, Ryne Nelson from the Diamondbacks, who has been putting up some decent figures this season. You're looking at 3.61 ERA, 7.9 K/9 over 13 games -- not too shabby. Then we've got Nick Martínez from the Reds, a tolerable 4.03 ERA and 6.3 K/9 under his belt this season. They are not launching rockets, but they're not exactly shooting blanks either.
For the Diamondbacks, we've got the invincible duo, Ryan Thompson and Juan Morillo. Their current performance might look like stats from an unfinished video game, but it's safe to say their impact can't be ignored. On the side of the Reds, Emilio Pagan also boasts stats of zeroes across the board, matching the two top Diamondback players in the mystery department. Add Elly De La Cruz to their roster hitmixture, a .242 average with 18 RBI's and 7 home runs so far, baby got some serious bat.
Checking the history books, these two teams have had some nail-biting battles. The recent games have gone both ways, but Arizona must be ruing the missed opportunity in their last clash with Reds clinching a one-point victory. Looking at their regular-season form, it's like comparing apples to almost identical apples with D-Backs at 31-31, and Reds dancing behind with 30-33.
If we take a good look at the recent matches, the Diamondbacks have been having a pretty good time, bagging 4 victories in their last 5 games. The Reds, well, let's just say they've been finding it a bit more challenging recently.
Taking everything into account, we've got ourselves an interesting brawl in Cincinnati. It's a neck and neck race but considering all factors, I've got a good feeling about Arizona on this one, in spite of the Reds having home advantage.
Albert’s Prediction: Arizona Diamondbacks by 2