2025-09-14 Reds at Athletics Matchup Preview

Starting Pitcher Matchup: Nick Lodolo vs. Luis Morales

The Cincinnati Reds will send left-hander Nick Lodolo to the mound, while the Athletics counter with right-hander Luis Morales. Lodolo’s effectiveness hinges on his ability to command his fastball and breaking pitches. His success will depend on keeping Athletics hitters off balance. Morales will rely on his fastball velocity and movement to challenge the Reds' lineup. He will look to exploit any weaknesses in their approach, aiming to induce weak contact and limit extra-base hits.

Reds' Offensive Outlook

The Cincinnati Reds' offense this season demonstrates a team capable of generating runs through a balanced approach. Their weighted on-base average of 0.306 indicates a lineup that consistently gets on base. This is further supported by their team's overall Wins Above Replacement of 11.3, suggesting they have players who contribute positively in various facets of the game. Against Morales, the Reds hitters will need to focus on plate discipline, working counts to their advantage, and capitalizing on any mistakes. Look for them to be aggressive early in the count, especially if Morales struggles to locate his pitches.

Athletics' Offensive Capabilities

The Athletics' offense presents a different profile, with a Wins Above Replacement of 20.0, indicating a team with some serious talent and ability to perform at a high level. The Athletics offense shows a good Expected Weighted On-Base Average of 0.319 which shows they have some consistent hitters and they are able to get on base at a more than acceptable percentage. The key for the Athletics will be to stay patient against Lodolo, who has the potential to dominate if he gets into a rhythm. They'll need to make him work deep into counts, forcing him to use his entire arsenal and hoping to wear him down as the game progresses.

Pitching Strategy Analysis

Lodolo's success will largely depend on his ability to mix his pitches effectively and keep the Athletics guessing. If he can establish his fastball early in the game and then complement it with well-placed breaking balls, he will be in a good position to limit the Athletics' offensive output. For Morales, location will be critical. He needs to avoid leaving pitches over the heart of the plate, where the Reds hitters can do damage. Using his fastball to set up his off-speed pitches will be key, as will keeping the ball down in the zone to induce ground balls.

Defensive Considerations

Both teams' defenses will play a crucial role in this matchup. Solid defense behind Lodolo will be essential for the Reds, especially given his propensity to generate ground balls and flyouts. The Athletics' defense will need to be sharp as well, as Morales' tendency to allow balls in play will put a premium on their ability to make plays in the field. Any errors could prove costly, especially in a close game.

Game Prediction

This game projects to be a tightly contested affair, with both starting pitchers capable of keeping their respective offenses in check. The Reds' slightly more balanced offense and Lodolo's potential to dominate suggest a slight edge for Cincinnati. However, the Athletics' ability to manufacture runs and the potential for their offense to break out at any moment makes them a dangerous opponent. It will be a close game that can go either way depending on the quality of pitching and hitting at key moments.

Reds 5 Athletics 4