2025-05-24 Cubs at Reds Matchup Preview

Starting Pitching Matchup

Right-hander Colin Rea will take the mound for the Chicago Cubs, tasked with stifling the Cincinnati Reds' offense. Rea's repertoire is built around command and control, aiming to induce soft contact and keep hitters off balance. He relies on a mix of fastballs, changeups, and breaking balls to navigate through opposing lineups. His ability to locate his pitches effectively will be crucial against a Reds team that thrives on capitalizing on mistakes.

Opposing Rea is right-hander Andrew Abbott for the Cincinnati Reds. Abbott's approach is centered around overpowering hitters with velocity and movement. He features a fastball that he elevates effectively, coupled with a slider that generates swings and misses. Abbott's effectiveness hinges on his ability to maintain command of his pitches and avoid falling behind in counts. If he can control the strike zone, he possesses the stuff to dominate the Cubs' lineup.

Cubs Offensive Outlook

The Chicago Cubs enter this contest boasting a strong offensive profile, as their team has put up a Left on Weighted Average Runs Above Replacement of 12.1. The Cubs lineup is designed to generate consistent run production through a combination of power and on-base ability. They will look to exploit Abbott's tendencies and capitalize on any opportunities to get runners in scoring position. Their ability to work counts and wear down opposing pitchers will be key to their success. The Cubs' hitters will need to be disciplined at the plate and avoid chasing pitches outside of the strike zone, particularly against Abbott's slider.

Reds Offensive Outlook

The Cincinnati Reds' offense has been decent this season, though far from stellar, registering a Left on Weighted Average Runs Above Replacement of 4.5. The Reds excel at putting the ball in play and utilizing their speed on the basepaths. They present a challenge to opposing pitchers with their aggressive approach and willingness to take risks. Against Rea, they will aim to be patient and selective, waiting for pitches they can drive. Their ability to manufacture runs through stolen bases and hit-and-runs will be crucial, particularly against a Cubs team that prides itself on its defensive prowess.

Keys to the Game

For the Cubs, the key to victory lies in Rea's ability to command his pitches and keep the Reds' hitters off balance. The Cubs' offense needs to be patient and disciplined against Abbott, working counts and capitalizing on mistakes. Defensively, they must be sharp and limit the Reds' opportunities to manufacture runs.

For the Reds, Abbott needs to establish control early and prevent the Cubs' hitters from getting comfortable. The Reds' offense must be aggressive and take advantage of scoring opportunities. Defensively, they need to be solid and prevent the Cubs from stringing together hits.

This promises to be a tightly contested matchup between two teams with contrasting styles. The Cubs will rely on their pitching and disciplined offense, while the Reds will look to exploit their speed and aggressive approach. The outcome will likely depend on which team can execute its game plan more effectively.