The Cleveland Guardians (25-18) and Cincinnati Reds (21-24) are set to face off in the series opener at Great American Ball Park. The Guardians enter the matchup as slight favorites (-123 moneyline odds), while the Reds look to build momentum after a 7-1 victory over the White Sox in their last game.
Starting Pitchers
Cleveland Guardians – Tanner Bibee (RHP, 3-3, 3.80 ERA)
- Bibee has been solid in his last five starts, averaging 5.6 innings per outing.
- He has three quality starts this season and has held opponents to a .229 batting average.
- In his most recent start against the Phillies, he pitched seven innings, allowing just one earned run.
Cincinnati Reds – Brady Singer (RHP, 4-2, 4.97 ERA)
- Singer has been inconsistent, but he has the ability to limit damage when in rhythm.
- He faces a Guardians lineup that ranks 12th in MLB in home runs (48) and has been effective in extra-base hits.
Key Players to Watch
Cleveland Guardians
- José Ramírez (3B) – Batting .295 with eight home runs, currently on a nine-game hitting streak.
- Steven Kwan (LF) – Leads the team with a .325 batting average, providing consistency at the top of the lineup.
- Kyle Manzardo (1B) – Has 10 home runs this season, making him a power threat in the middle of the order.
Cincinnati Reds
- Elly De La Cruz (SS) – Leads the Reds with eight home runs and 31 RBIs, hitting .286 over his last five games.
- TJ Friedl (OF) – Batting .274 with six doubles and three home runs, providing speed and versatility.
- Gavin Lux (2B) – Has a .291 batting average, making him one of Cincinnati’s most consistent hitters.
Game Strategy & Predictions
- Guardians’ Game Plan:
- Take advantage of Singer’s inconsistency by working deep counts.
- Utilize Ramírez and Kwan’s ability to get on base to create scoring opportunities.
- Bibee must limit hard contact, as the Reds rank 14th in slugging percentage (.385).
- Reds’ Game Plan:
- De La Cruz and Friedl need to set the tone early against Bibee.
- Singer must avoid walks, as Cleveland has been effective at capitalizing on free passes.
- Cincinnati’s bullpen must be ready, as Singer has struggled to go deep into games.
Game Odds
Cleveland Guardians – 125
Cincinnati Reds 9
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, May 15, 2025
