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

Right-hander has delivered immediate results in the Reds’ bullpen.

On paper, it may have seemed a modest move at the time. Still, the July 28th acquisition of Mychal Givens from the Colorado Rockies is one of those moves that could be the difference between the Reds playing in October or watching playoff baseball from their couches.

Since joining the Reds, the right-hander has immediately paid dividends for the Redlegs. Appearing in five games, he’s yet to yield a run while allowing just two hits and fanning five. In addition, Givens has already collected two saves.

A six-year veteran, the former second-round pick of the Baltimore Orioles has put together a stellar resumé out of the bullpen. Making 343 career appearances, Givens has whiffed 451 hitters in just 381 innings. He’s also compiled an excellent 1.15 WHIP in seven big league seasons.

An impending free agent, the 31-year-old Florida native, is sure to be a much-in-demand commodity this offseason. Throughout his career, he’s dominated right-handed hitters holding them to a paltry .194/.272/.327 slash line. Let’s hope he enjoys his time in the Queen City and looks to make a more permanent stay in Cincinnati following the 2021 season.

Prediction

This is a huge series for both clubs as they look to crawl their way into a crowded National League playoff picture. Both teams reside in second place in their respective divisions; however, the Reds are 3.5 games clear of Atlanta as they try to catch San Diego for the second Wild Card berth.

It won’t be easy, but look for the Redlegs to take two of three from the Braves before heading to play the new NL East leaders and the hottest team in baseball in a weekend showdown with the Philadelphia Phillies.