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

The Reds offense is struggling as the finish line is in sight.

For much of the 2021 season, the Cincinnati Reds offense has been one of the best units in the National League. But, unfortunately, when the Redlegs have needed them the most, the bats have gone silent.

Entering play yesterday, the Cincinnati offense was slashing a paltry .227/.291/.400 while striking out 193 times and only drawing 64 free passes over the last 28 days. Those were the numbers before yesterday’s one-run five,-hit feeble performance. Ouch.

Since the calendar flipped to September, Tucker Barnhart, Delino DeShields Jr., Kyle Farmer, Mike Moustakas, and Tyler Stephenson have all posted an OPS+ mark of 76 or below. How bad has it been for Shogo Akiyama, Aristides Aquino, and Asdrubal Cabrera? Cover the kid’s eyes bad.

That trio of Reds has combined to go an absolutely horrific 7-for-80. However, help appears to be on the way and not a moment too soon.

According to various reports last night, All-Star outfielder Jesse Winker will be in the starting lineup for the first time since August 15th after a stint on the IL with an intercostal strain. But, unfortunately, even that exciting news is tinged with disappointment.

That’s because, according to a report from Bobby Nightengale of the Cincinnati Enquirer, Tyler Naquin, who is slashing .344/.385/.689 this month, appears headed for the IL with bruised ribs as a result of a collision with Jose Barrero during Saturday’s game in St. Louis. Nothing comes easy right now for the Redlegs.

Prediction

Can the Cincinnati Reds finally put an end to their crippling seven-series losing streak? I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it’s not happening this weekend.

If the Reds can’t take a series from the Cubs, Marlins, Tigers, and Pirates, there’s absolutely no reason to believe they will rise up and take down the mighty Dodgers. So the best Reds Country can hope for is the club righting the ship with the Pirates and Nationals coming to town following LA’s visit to GABP.