A new series to build momentum? We’ll see!
Facing the Milwaukee Brewers in any ballpark has been a consistent challenge for the Cincinnati Reds in recent years. To put it bluntly, the Brewers have dominated the Reds, and this has significantly contributed to their frequent position at the top of the National League Central division during that period.
As the Cincinnati Reds return to Great American Ball Park for their next series in 2025, they do so with a record of 29-31 that doesn’t quite reflect their season-long run differential but still captures the essence of their year so far. The Reds have shown potential when they play well, but more often than not, they’ve struggled. Now, they face a 32-28 Milwaukee Brewers team that has hit its stride, winning seven straight games (8-2 in their last ten) while chasing the Chicago Cubs, who recently dominated the Reds.
It’s important to note that this Brewers team is different from past years. Corbin Burnes and Willy Adames, who have historically given Cincinnati trouble, are no longer around, and manager Craig Counsell is now with the Cubs. However, Milwaukee still has a solid pitching staff, a former MVP in Christian Yelich leading their lineup, and the kind of team spirit that seems to give them the edge over the Reds, who have been in search of that same energy for some time.
Yelich left yesterday’s game with a hand contusion after being hit by a pitch, so his availability for this series is uncertain. Still, the Brewers have depth in their outfield, boasting a combined 3.1 fWAR among their outfielders (8th best in MLB), as well as 37 stolen bases (2nd most).
While it’s not time for Cincinnati to hit the panic button just yet, it’s definitely time to consider some changes. Whether it means adjusting the lineup, reconfiguring positions, or tweaking the roster, the Reds haven’t found any sustained momentum this season. Perhaps they should consider moving Elly De La Cruz to the leadoff spot and placing the on-fire TJ Friedl in the crucial number two position ahead of Tyler Stephenson, regardless of where he plays that day. Bringing back the Viking helmet tradition (even without Joey Votto and Jonathan India) or asking Terry Francona to do pushups for every strikeout could also be on the table.
Regardless, it’s clear that this team is desperately seeking a formula for consistent success as the Brewers arrive, kicking off a tough stretch of opponents over the next month. It’s a crucial moment for Cincinnati, with the first pitch scheduled for 7:10 PM ET on Monday.
Pitching Matchups:
- Monday, June 2nd (7:10 PM ET): RHP Brady Singer vs. RHP Aaron Civale
- Tuesday, June 3rd (7:10 PM ET): RHP Hunter Greene vs. RHP Freddy Peralta
- Wednesday, June 4th (12:40 PM ET): LHP Andrew Abbott vs. RHP Quinn Priester
How to Watch: Monday’s series opener will be nationally aired on FS1, so check your local listings for the channel. The next two games will be available on FanDuel Sports Network, which can be accessed through various cable packages or streamed in-market without blackout restrictions. For those outside the Reds TV market, the FDSN stream can be found through MLB.tv.
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