Reds vs Twins: Three games in Minnesota will determine playoff berth

The final weekend has arrived with the Reds on the cusp of a playoff berth.

Reds Country we’re almost there. The finish line is in sight, but one pivotal test remains as the Cincinnati Reds (29-28) travel to the Twin Cities to face an excellent Minnesota club. Another huge series is nothing new for the Redlegs as they’ve been in playoff mode since a weekend series in St. Louis earlier this month.

Over the past two weeks, the Reds have captured series from the Cardinals, Pirates, White Sox and Brewers to salvage a 2020 campaign that was on the brink of being one of the most disappointing in the club’s history.

Credit excellent pitching, timely home runs and shrewd decision making from manager David Bell to put the Reds in position for their first playoff appearance since the 2013 season. Since September 1st no team in the National League has captured more than the Reds 14 victories.

In addition to the 14 W’s, the 76 runs they’ve allowed this month are the third-fewest in the senior circuit thanks to outstanding starting pitching and a bullpen who has done a complete 180-degree turn to overcome a disastrous opening month.

Not to be outdone, the playoff-bound Minnesota Twins have an MLB leading 15 wins in this final month to propel them into first place in the ultra-competitive AL Central Division. The Twins pitching staff has surrendered an AL low 65 runs since the beginning of September.

Anticipate a low scoring weekend series between the best the American and National League have had to offer this month. With a postseason trip hanging in the balance the, 2020 resilient Reds have one more obstacle to vanquish their six-year playoff drought.