Cincinnati Reds: Three keys to a postseason pursuit

The Reds are just two games out of the final playoff spot.

The Cincinnati Reds trail the St. Louis Cardinals by 2.5 games for second-place in the National League Central, and are just two games back of the San Francisco Giants for the last Wild Card spot. Just like we all planned, right? Seriously though, Cincinnati has a real shot to overcome their horrid start and make their first postseason berth since 2013.

To think that the Reds are just a couple games out of the 2020 postseason is a bit surprising. Certainly, with the expanded playoffs from five teams to eight, Cincinnati’s chances for making a postseason run seemed inevitable before the 2020 season began. But early implosions from the bullpen and a lackluster offense of late has the Reds on the outside looking in.

However, there is hope, as the Cincinnati Reds just took 2-of-3 from the St. Louis Cardinals and are getting ready to welcome the Pittsburgh Pirates to town for a four-game series. To say the upcoming series versus Pittsburgh is a “must’ win” would be an understatement. The Reds are battered and bruised, but still hold out hope for a last-minute surge.

There are just two weeks and 13 games remaining in the Reds 2020 regular season. If David Bell and his squad have any chance to make the postseason, the upcoming 10-game homestand holds the key to playing October baseball or staying home and sitting on the couch. What are the three keys to a Reds playoff run?