Let's hit this baby out of the park. The Cincinnati Reds are hosting the Miami Marlins at the Great American Ballpark - a field that tends to be a friend to those swinging the bat.
Now let's look at the men on the mound. Cal Quantrill is throwing for Miami and I must say, his performance this season leaves something to be desired with a 5.59 ERA and 1.48 WHIP. Compare this to the Reds' starter, Nick Lodolo. With a solid 3.70 ERA and 1.18 WHIP, I'd be nervous if I were a Marlins fan.
Diving into the players, Miami's out there with Nick Fortes and his .375 average. Plus, don't forget Heriberto Hernandez, sitting pretty with a .356 average and 3 home runs. On the Reds side, Spencer Steer has been knocking in those runs with a .309 average and 19 RBIs, while Elly De La Cruz isn't far behind with a .307 average.
The history between these teams is pretty back and forth. Most recently the Reds did best with a 7-2 outcome, but the Marlins showed their teeth with a 12-2 blowout just prior.
This season, both teams are pretty much neck and neck with their wins and losses. A 42-48 record for Miami while Cincinnati has a symmetrical 46-46 going on.
But if we're looking at recent results, it seems like the Marlins might've peaked too early. Having won 2 matches against the Reds recently, they've now dropped a 7 -2 game to them. Meantime the Reds are coming off of that big win against Miami.
So, my money is on the Reds. With a stronger pitcher, a batting-friendly ballpark, and their last game's momentum, I think they've got this.
Albert’s Prediction: Cincinnati Reds by 3