The Cincinnati Reds head west to face the Los Angeles Angels in an interleague clash on Monday, August 18, 2025, at Angel Stadium in Anaheim. First pitch is set for 9:38 PM ET, a late start for the Reds, who are in the thick of the NL Wild Card chase. The Angels, meanwhile, are playing spoiler while trying to piece together a young core.
Quick Game Facts
- Matchup: Cincinnati Reds (NL Central) at Los Angeles Angels (AL West)
- Venue: Angel Stadium – Anaheim, CA
- First Pitch: 9:38 PM ET
- Weather: Clear skies, mid-70s, light breeze out to left field
- Odds: Reds -135 | Angels +115 | Total: 8.5
Team Analysis
Cincinnati Reds
The Reds enter this matchup leaning heavily on their youthful lineup led by Elly De La Cruz and Spencer Steer, both of whom have given the offense a spark. They’ve been aggressive on the basepaths, ranking among the NL’s leaders in stolen bases, which adds pressure on opposing pitchers.
On the mound, Cincinnati is projected to send Hunter Greene to start. Greene has been electric when his command is sharp, averaging nearly 11 strikeouts per nine innings, but he’s also had bouts of inconsistency with walks and home runs. Against an Angels lineup that struggles with strikeouts, Greene could be in line for a big outing.
The Reds’ bullpen has settled into form behind closer Alexis Díaz, though middle relief remains a rollercoaster, making Greene’s ability to pitch deep into the game critical.
Los Angeles Angels
For the Angels, the rebuild is on full display. Zach Neto, Logan O’Hoppe, and Nolan Schanuel headline the lineup, which flashes upside but struggles with consistency. They lack the steady veteran presence to anchor rallies, and without Mike Trout, the offense has been searching for a true centerpiece.
The Angels are likely giving the ball to Patrick Sandoval, a lefty who mixes a deceptive changeup with a slider-heavy approach. Sandoval has been serviceable at times, but his command lapses often lead to elevated pitch counts and early exits. Against a patient Reds lineup, he’ll need to pound the zone and avoid free passes.
Defensively, the Angels’ infield is solid with Neto and Schanuel, but the outfield coverage has been a weak spot, especially in the gaps.
Key Matchup to Watch
- Hunter Greene’s Fastball vs. Angels’ Young Bats – Greene’s velocity can overwhelm inexperienced hitters, and if he’s locating, this game could tilt heavily in Cincinnati’s favor. However, if his command falters, the Angels have just enough pop to punish mistakes.
Best Bets
- Pick: Cincinnati Reds -135 → With Greene’s strikeout upside and the Reds’ better lineup depth, they hold the clear edge.
- Total: Under 8.5 → Both pitchers have inconsistencies, but Angel Stadium suppresses home runs, and night games there tend to play lower-scoring.
- Player Prop: Hunter Greene Over 7.5 Strikeouts → The Angels strike out at a high rate against high-velocity arms, making this a strong angle.
Prediction
The Reds’ push for October gives them more urgency, while the Angels continue to sort out their young roster. Greene’s strikeout ability and Cincinnati’s offensive depth should carry them through.
Final Score Prediction: Reds 5, Angels 3
