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

The Reds seek retribution against the Cubs as they visit Wrigley Field.

Believe it or not, someone will claim the second Wild Card berth in the National League. But, unfortunately, we each passing day, it’s becoming more difficult to believe that team will be our beloved Cincinnati Reds.

The Reds (73-65) capped off a disastrous six-game homestand with an anemic performance in a 4-1 defeat yesterday to the Detroit Tigers to finish the week with a dismal 2-4 record.  Cincinnati has dropped four consecutive series and five of their last six. Needless to say, nothing is coming easy for the Reds these days.

Amazingly enough, despite the downward spiral of the last two weeks, the Redlegs find themselves just a half-game behind the San Diego Padres for the elusive final playoff ticket in the senior circuit.

Beginning this afternoon, the Reds open a three-game set in Chicago today versus the Cubs; the Friars will have the Labor Day holiday off before hosting the Los Angeles Angels for a brief two-game series beginning Tuesday night.

As far as the other teams contending for the second Wild Card berth, their week will begin with a great deal of difficulty. The division rival St. Louis Cardinals host the Los Angeles Dodgers, while the Philadelphia Phillies open a set in Milwaukee. This will be one of the few times all season where Reds Country should become huge Brewers fans.

Cincinnati will be making their final 2021 visit to the Friendly Confines to battle the Cubs. Chicago has played excellent baseball recently, winning six in a row. This should come as no surprise to the Redlegs, who dropped two of three to the North Siders during their last trip to Great American Ball Park.

The Reds have already clinched the season series against the Cubs (63-75) by winning 10 of the previous 16 contests between the NL Central division rivals. Additionally, Cincinnati holds a 4-3 advantage in the Windy City during the 2021 campaign.