Dodgers vs Reds predictions
If you’re tuning in to see the Los Angeles Dodgers, eyes will be glued to Shohei Ohtani, who’s been the talk of the league all season. I fully expect Ohtani to make a mark both at the plate and if he gets a chance on the mound—don’t be surprised if he racks up an RBI or even launches one out of Great American Ball Park. Mookie Betts tends to thrive in high-stakes games, and he looks primed to string together a few hits, maybe even swipe a base if the opportunity pops up. Will Smith, ever consistent with the bat, should continue to set the table with a couple of base knocks and probably drive in at least one run. And with Freddie Freeman’s knack for getting on base, look for him to always be lurking as a scoring threat whenever he steps up.
Flipping over to the Cincinnati Reds, Elly De La Cruz is the clear danger man. I like his chances for a multi-hit night—maybe even mix in a double and swipe a bag, because that’s just what he does. Watch out for Jake Fraley and Matt McLain too; Fraley’s been swinging it pretty well so there’s a good shot he’ll pick up a hit or two, and McLain could provide a spark either at the plate or on the basepaths. Nick Martinez taking the mound for the Reds makes things interesting—if he can keep the Dodgers’ bats relatively quiet through five or six innings, he’ll give his team exactly the shot in the arm they need.
But looking at the momentum and the way the Dodgers have handled the first two games of the series, it’s tough to bet against them capping off the sweep. The top of their lineup is just relentless, and with Ohtani leading the charge, the edge looks to be in LA’s favor. The Reds will keep fighting, especially in front of the home crowd, but if I had to call it, I’m leaning Dodgers to finish this one out with another win and make it a clean sweep in Cincinnati. What do you think—is this series already locked up for LA, or will the Reds spoil the party?
