Reds vs. Cubs: Pitching preview, prediction, and more

The Reds’ first baseman has found his power stroke.

If there’s one thing Reds Country should know by now, it’s to never doubt Joey Votto. Before the 2021 campaign began, Votto told anyone who would listen his goal this season was to display more power even though it may negatively impact his overall batting average and on-base percentage.

It would have been easy to dismiss the comments as those of an aging player making empty promises in hopes of being a valuable contributor to the team, but Joey Votto has proved his naysayers wrong once again.

Entering play today, Votto has six homers and 19 RBIs in his last 30 games while producing a  .308/.408/.551 slash line. Additionally, his current 114 OPS+ and .839 slugging marks are his highest since his last All-Star appearance in 2018. In other words, Votto still bangs.

Prediction

As the Reds playoff hopes hang in the balance, Chicago has clearly turned their attention to 2022 and beyond. It could be an emotional week for several Cubbies as it could be their final appearances as North Siders at Wrigley Field.

Chicago is an excellent 30-18 at home, while the Reds are a stellar 25-22 away from the Queen City. Unfortunately, look for the Redlegs to tread water as they open the week with a split with the Cubs before moving on to New York City and a weekend date with the Mets.