The NL Central-leading Milwaukee Brewers (77–44, 35–24 away) look to keep their dominant run going as they close out a weekend set with the Cincinnati Reds (64–59, 35–28 home) at Great American Ball Park. First pitch is set for 1:40 PM ET in what could be one of the more entertaining matchups of the Sunday slate.
Both clubs are coming off a wild 10–8 Brewers win Friday night, highlighting the offensive firepower on both sides. Now, with playoff positioning in play, every game matters.
Recent Team Form
Milwaukee Brewers (Last 5):
- W 10–8 @ CIN
- W 12–5 vs PIT
- W 14–0 vs PIT
- W 7–1 vs PIT
- W 7–6 vs NYM
Milwaukee is on a five-game winning streak and showing off one of the most balanced rosters in baseball. The offense has erupted for 50 runs in its last five games, and the pitching staff continues to post steady numbers. Christian Yelich remains the heartbeat of the lineup, driving in runs in bunches.
Cincinnati Reds (Last 5):
- L 10–8 vs MIL
- W 8–0 vs PHI
- W 6–1 vs PHI
- L 4–1 vs PHI
- W 14–8 @ PIT
The Reds have been more up-and-down but still remain firmly in the NL Wild Card chase. Elly De La Cruz has electrified the lineup with speed and power, while Andrew Abbott has emerged as a reliable arm in the rotation. Cincinnati will need sharp pitching in this one to slow down Milwaukee’s relentless offense.
Probable Pitchers
| Team | Starter | W-L | ERA | WHIP | IP | H | K | BB | HR | Blurb |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MIL | José Quintana (LHP) | 10–4 | 3.44 | 1.30 | 99.1 | 93 | 69 | 36 | 14 | The veteran southpaw has stabilized Milwaukee’s rotation. While not overpowering, he thrives on inducing soft contact and working efficiently through lineups. |
| CIN | Andrew Abbott (LHP) | 8–3 | 2.41 | 1.11 | 123.0 | 101 | 105 | 35 | 13 | Abbott has been the Reds’ breakout pitcher, flashing strikeout ability and poise beyond his years. He’ll be tested by a Brewers lineup that rarely strikes out. |
Key Players to Watch
Milwaukee Brewers:
- Christian Yelich (25 HR, 86 RBI) — continues to anchor the offense with both power and patience.
- Sal Frelick (.298 AVG) — a consistent bat at the top of the order who can set the tone early.
- William Contreras (not listed but leading in OBP/OPS) — crucial in keeping rallies alive.
Cincinnati Reds:
- Elly De La Cruz (19 HR, 76 RBI) — brings game-changing speed and power, capable of altering the game in a single at-bat.
- Gavin Lux (.282 AVG) — steady contact hitter who helps balance the Reds’ offense.
- Abbott — Cincinnati’s best chance to win rests on his ability to neutralize Milwaukee’s hot bats.
Matchup Breakdown
This matchup features two left-handers, which could impact how each lineup is constructed. Milwaukee has crushed pitching overall lately, but their splits against lefties are slightly less dominant. Quintana will look to work through a Reds order that strikes out a fair amount, while Abbott must find a way to avoid the big inning that Milwaukee thrives on.
The Brewers hold a clear statistical edge in batting average (.260 vs. .247), slugging (.409 vs. .390), and overall run production (630 vs. 562). Meanwhile, the pitching staffs are closer: Milwaukee’s ERA sits at 3.63, while Cincinnati’s is 3.85.
The biggest X-factor? Milwaukee’s confidence and current form. Riding a five-game winning streak, they’ve been the hottest team in baseball this week, while Cincinnati has leaned heavily on Abbott and De La Cruz to carry the load.
Best Bets
- Brewers ML (-115) — Milwaukee is simply too hot right now and matches up well.
- Over 9.5 (EVEN) — both teams have shown recent offensive surges, and Great American Ball Park is hitter-friendly.
- Yelich to Record 2+ Total Bases — given his matchup and recent production, he’s a strong player prop target.
Prediction
This has the makings of a close, high-scoring affair, especially with both lineups seeing left-handers. Abbott could keep Cincinnati competitive, but Milwaukee’s balance and depth make the difference late. Expect the Brewers to extend their winning streak and take another series on the road.
Final Score: Brewers 7, Reds 5
