2025-07-29 Dodgers at Reds Matchup Preview

Starting Pitcher Matchup

Right-hander Tyler Glasnow takes the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers, bringing a repertoire built on velocity and movement to the forefront. Glasnow's ability to command his fastball, which sits comfortably in the mid-90s, is key to his success. When he effectively locates the pitch, it sets up his devastating slider, a pitch known for its late break and deception. He also mixes in a curveball, adding another dimension to his arsenal and keeping hitters off balance. For the Cincinnati Reds, left-hander Nick Lodolo will look to counter with his own strengths. Lodolo, known for his command and ability to induce soft contact, relies on a mix of pitches designed to disrupt hitters' timing. His fastball, while not overpowering in terms of raw velocity, features excellent movement and late life. He complements it with a sweeping curveball and a changeup, both of which he uses to keep hitters guessing and off balance.

Dodgers' Hitting Approach vs. Lodolo

The Los Angeles Dodgers' offense, a unit known for its patience and ability to work deep counts, will present a challenge to Lodolo. Their team has accumulated a team Wins Above Replacement of 19.1, showcasing their overall offensive prowess. They will need to use their disciplined approach to combat Lodolo's ability to mix pitches and induce weak contact. The Dodgers' hitters excel at identifying pitches early in the count and laying off those that are not to their liking. This selectivity forces opposing pitchers to work deeper into counts, increasing the likelihood of mistakes and opportunities for the Dodgers to capitalize. Specifically, the Dodgers' hitters must be wary of Lodolo's ability to locate his sweeping curveball, a pitch that can be particularly effective against right-handed hitters. It is critical for them to remain patient and avoid chasing pitches outside of the strike zone.

Reds' Hitting Approach vs. Glasnow

The Cincinnati Reds' offense, while boasting a Wins Above Replacement of 9.4, possesses a different dynamic than that of the Dodgers. They have a more aggressive approach at the plate, often looking to attack early in the count. This approach will be tested against Glasnow's velocity and ability to command the strike zone. The Reds' hitters must be prepared to face a barrage of fastballs and adjust to the late movement on Glasnow's slider. Success against Glasnow will likely depend on their ability to make early contact and capitalize on any mistakes he makes. They also need to be mindful of his curveball, a pitch that can be difficult to pick up due to its similar arm speed to his fastball. Discipline will be key for the Reds to avoid falling behind in the count and becoming overly reliant on trying to hit a home run.

Key Matchups and Intangibles

A key matchup to watch will be how the Dodgers' patient hitters fare against Lodolo's pitch mixing strategy. If the Dodgers can force Lodolo to work deep into counts and elevate his pitch count, they could gain a significant advantage as the game progresses. Conversely, if Lodolo can induce early contact and keep the Dodgers' hitters off balance, he could set the tone for a strong outing. On the other side, the Reds' aggressive hitters will need to be selective in their approach against Glasnow's high-velocity arsenal. Early contact will be a major key for the Reds lineup, as well as getting to Glasnow early in counts. Whichever team is able to control the tempo of the at-bats and execute their respective offensive strategies will likely have a significant advantage in this matchup.

Prediction

Given the Dodgers' offensive strength and Glasnow's potential to dominate, they enter the game as slight favorites. However, Lodolo's ability to limit damage and the Reds' aggressive approach at the plate make them a dangerous opponent. The game is likely to be a close, tightly contested affair decided by timely hitting and effective pitching. Expect a game of cat and mouse, with both offenses trying to get to each other's bullpens, but pitching should prevail in this contest.

Away: Dodgers Away Score: 5 Home: Reds Home Score: 4