Key Reds star returns to starting lineup vs. Brewers, but not where you'd expect

Update: Matt McLain was scratched before first pitch.

The Cincinnati Reds will be looking to end their four-game losing streak on Saturday night when Terry Francona's club faces off against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field in front of a national television audience.

Reds fans are hoping to avoid being embarrassed after four straight one-run losses in which Cincinnati has scored a grand total of just two runs. The Reds were blanked in three consecutive games this past week, and while Cincinnati finally put some runs on the board Friday night in Milwaukee, they ultimately fell to the Brew Crew by the final score of 3-2.

Thankfully, Matt McLain will be back in the Reds starting lineup after being scratched on Friday due to hamstring tightness. McLain, however, will not be playing the field, and instead act as Cincinnati's designated hitter.

Key Reds star, Matt McLain, returns to starting lineup vs. Brewers

McLain will occupy his usual spot, batting second behind leadoff hitter TJ Friedl. Elly De La Cruz will bat third and play shortstop while Wisconsin native Gavin Lux will occupy left field. Jeimer Candelario, who's been heavily criticized of late, will be back at third base and hit fifth in the Cincinnati batting order.

Christian Encarnacion-Strand will be at first base, while Santiago Espinal will replace McLain at second base. Rounding out the Reds starting lineup will be right fielder Jake Fraley and catcher Jose Trevino. Taking the hill for the Reds on Saturday night will be Brady Singer.

Singer was outstanding in his Reds' debut. The former Kansas City Royals hurler went seven innings and allowed just one hit while striking out eight Texas Rangers' hitters. Singer was the last Reds pitcher to collect a win, and Cincinnati will be looking for the right-hander to help keep them in the ballgame on Saturday night in Milwaukee.

The Reds' pitching has not been the problem. Cincinnati's pitching staff has collectively allowed just six runs over the past four games, but the team is 0-4 in those contests. Francona and Co. are hoping the bats finally come alive tonight and give Cincinnati an opportunity to earn a series split on Sunday before heading out west to play the San Francisco Giants.

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