What's Happening?
The Cincinnati Reds are on the brink of securing a wild card spot in the National League as they face the Milwaukee Brewers in the regular-season finale. The Reds, currently tied with the New York Mets for the final wild card position, need a win to guarantee their place in the postseason. If both the Reds and Mets win or lose, the Reds will advance due to their tiebreaker advantage from winning the season series against the Mets. The Reds have shown strong performance recently, winning three consecutive games and eight of their last ten. Their recent victory over the Brewers was marked by a six-run third inning, contributing to a 7-4 win. Brady Singer will pitch for the Reds, while the Brewers, who have already clinched the National League Central and the top seed, will start Freddy Peralta.
Why It's Important?
This game is pivotal for the Cincinnati Reds as it determines their postseason fate. A win would mark their first playoff appearance since 2020, providing a significant morale boost and potential financial benefits from postseason play. For the Brewers, although they have secured the top seed, a win would set a franchise record for most wins in a season, adding to their momentum heading into the playoffs. The outcome of this game also impacts the New York Mets, who are vying for the same wild card spot. The Reds' recent performance highlights their resilience and capability to compete at a high level, which could make them formidable opponents in the playoffs.
What's Next?
If the Reds secure the wild card spot, they will prepare for the postseason, where they will face tough competition. The Brewers, regardless of the outcome, will focus on maintaining their form and strategizing for their playoff run. The Mets will be closely watching the Reds' game, as their postseason hopes hinge on the Reds' performance. The potential activation of injured Brewers relievers Trevor Megill and DL Hall could also influence the game's outcome, adding another layer of strategy for both teams.
