MLB Game Preview: Cleveland Guardians (25-20) vs. Cincinnati Reds (23-24)

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Cincinnati Reds logo

The Cleveland Guardians (25-20) will face the Cincinnati Reds (23-24) in the final game of their three-game series at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati. First pitch is set for 1:40 PM ET, with the game airing on MLB Network.

Game Details

  • Matchup: Cleveland Guardians vs. Cincinnati Reds
  • Date: Sunday, May 18, 2025
  • Location: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, OH
  • Time: 1:40 PM ET
  • TV Broadcast: MLB Network, FDSOH, CLEG
  • Streaming: FuboTV (regional restrictions may apply)

Team Overview & Key Storylines

Cleveland Guardians (25-20)

  • The Guardians have gone 5-5 in their last 10 games, with a .215 team batting average and a 3.48 ERA.
  • José Ramírez leads the team with nine home runs and 23 RBIs, batting .293 with a .516 slugging percentage.
  • Steven Kwan has been a consistent force, hitting .320 with four home runs and 17 RBIs.
  • Luis Ortiz (2-4, 4.78 ERA) will start on the mound, looking to bounce back after a rough stretch.

Cincinnati Reds (23-24)

  • The Reds are riding a three-game home win streak, going 5-5 in their last 10 games with a .241 team batting average and a 3.79 ERA.
  • Elly De La Cruz has been the Reds’ power hitter, crushing eight home runs and driving in 31 RBIs.
  • TJ Friedl has contributed three home runs and 17 RBIs, batting .268.
  • Andrew Abbott (2-0, 2.10 ERA) will take the mound, boasting a 1.07 WHIP and 38 strikeouts in 30 2/3 innings pitched.

Key Matchups to Watch

  • Luis Ortiz (Guardians) vs. Reds’ Offense – Ortiz has struggled, but Cleveland’s pitching staff has been solid overall.
  • Andrew Abbott (Reds) vs. Guardians’ Lineup – Abbott has been dominant, allowing just one earned run in his last start.
  • José Ramírez vs. Elly De La Cruz – Both players are key offensive contributors and could be the difference-makers.

Game Odds

Cleveland Guardians      9

Cincinnati Reds                 – 135

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, May 17, 2025