The Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds continue their three-game series at Great American Ball Park, with the Cubs holding a 1-0 series lead after a 13-6 victory in Game 1.
Game Overview
- Date: Saturday, May 24, 2025
- Time: 4:10 PM ET
- Location: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, OH
- Broadcast: ESPN, Bally Sports Ohio, Marquee Sports Network
- Series Status: Cubs lead 1-0
Team Breakdown
Chicago Cubs (31-20, 2nd in NL Central)
- Last Game: 13-6 win vs. Reds
- Key Players:
- Pete Crow-Armstrong – Leads the Cubs with 12 home runs, slugging .553.
- Seiya Suzuki – Batting .263, with three home runs and 11 RBIs in his last 10 games.
- Colin Rea (SP) – 3-0, 2.38 ERA, making his 11th start of the season.
Cincinnati Reds (25-27, 4th in NL Central)
- Last Game: 6-13 loss vs. Cubs
- Key Players:
- Elly De La Cruz – Batting .271, with eight home runs and 33 RBIs.
- Will Benson – Hitting .400 over his last 10 games, with three doubles and five home runs.
- Andrew Abbott (SP) – 3-0, 1.80 ERA, making his eighth start of the season.
Key Matchups & Storylines
1. Cubs’ Offensive Explosion vs. Reds’ Pitching Struggles
Chicago scored 11 runs in the final three innings of Game 1, showcasing their ability to capitalize late. Can Cincinnati’s bullpen hold up in Game 2?
2. Abbott vs. Cubs’ Power Hitters
Abbott has been dominant, posting a 1.80 ERA, but Chicago ranks fourth in OPS against left-handed pitchers. If the Cubs stay aggressive, Abbott could face trouble.
3. Reds’ Home Winning Streak
Despite the Game 1 loss, Cincinnati had won four straight home games before Friday. Can they bounce back and even the series?
4. Cubs’ Road Success
Chicago has a 15-10 record on the road, proving they can win away from Wrigley Field. Their ability to hit for power could be key in Cincinnati’s hitter-friendly ballpark.
5. NL Central Standings Impact
Both teams are chasing the Milwaukee Brewers, making this series crucial for positioning in the division.
Prediction & X-Factors
- Likely Outcome: A competitive game with both teams looking to gain momentum.
- X-Factors:
- Abbott’s ability to limit home runs – If he keeps the ball in the park, Cincinnati has a chance.
- Cubs’ late-game offense – If they stay hot in the later innings, they could take control.
- De La Cruz’s impact – If he sparks Cincinnati’s offense, the Reds could even the series.
Game Odds
Chicago Cubs – 115
Cincinnati Reds 9.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 23, 2025
