Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 14, 2024 6:22 am GMT
In a thrilling matchup for Ohio baseball fans, the Cincinnati Reds will take on the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on September 24, 2024. With the postseason drawing nearer, both teams are looking for crucial wins in the final weeks of the regular season. This game marks a battle for the coveted Ohio Cup, a symbol of state pride and rivalry between these two franchises.
Game Preview: What’s at Stake
The stakes are high as the Cincinnati Reds (76-81) enter this matchup against the Cleveland Guardians (90-67). For the Reds, this game is crucial as they look to finish the season strong and potentially spoil the Guardians’ playoff hopes. Meanwhile, the Guardians are aiming to solidify their position with the postseason fast approaching.
Key Details:
- Date: September 24, 2024
- Location: Progressive Field, Cleveland, OH
- TV: Bally Sports Ohio
Starting Pitchers
Both teams will showcase talented pitchers in this matchup. Jakob Junis will be starting for the Reds, while Tanner Bibee will take the mound for the Guardians.
Jakob Junis: Reds’ Competitive Edge
Junis has been solid in his recent performances. Over his last five outings, he has demonstrated impressive control, allowing just three runs in 23.2 innings. Despite this strong showing, the Reds have struggled to secure wins during that stretch, with a record of 1-4 in those games.
Career Stats:
- Games Started: 775 innings
- Strikeouts: 710
- ERA: 4.48
Junis will need to push his team to not only deliver on the mound but also support him offensively if they hope to win.
Tanner Bibee: Guardians’ Reliable Arm
On the other side, Tanner Bibee has been a trustworthy performer for the Guardians throughout the season. With an 11-8 record and a 3.56 ERA, Bibee has proven to be a key player. In his last outing against the Minnesota Twins, he pitched 6.2 innings and allowed just two earned runs.
Career Stats:
- ERA: 3.30
- Innings Pitched: 308
- Strikeouts: 321
Bibee’s earlier outing against the Reds this season resulted in four runs over 5.1 innings, so he will aim for redemption in this matchup.
Offensive Outlook
Looking at offensive stats, the Reds have seen some bright spots despite their overall struggles this season. They rank 14th in Major League Baseball (MLB) with an average of 4.4 runs per game and have accumulated 253 doubles. Notably, Elly De La Cruz leads the Reds with an OPS of .819, notching 69 extra-base hits and a league-best 65 stolen bases.
Reds Offense Highlights:
- Runs Scored: 659
- Slugging Percentage: .394
- Strikeouts: 1,429
For the Guardians, depth and versatility define their offensive prowess. They are closely mirrored by the Reds in terms of run production, averaging 4.41 runs per game. Jose Ramirez anchors the lineup with an OPS of .815, contributing 74 extra-base hits including 37 home runs.
Guardians Offense Highlights:
- Runs Scored: 692
- Batting Average: .238
- Slugging Percentage: .394
Defensive and Bullpen Strength
Both teams boast solid defensive units. The Guardians rank 2nd in the league in defensive efficiency, successfully turning 124 double plays. In comparison, the Reds have a fielding percentage of .982, placing them at 27th in MLB.
Team Defense Stats:
- Cincinnati Reds:
- Fielding Percentage: .982
- Putouts: 4,158
- Cleveland Guardians:
- Fielding Percentage: .985
- Putouts: 4,176
In terms of bullpen performance, the Guardians’ relievers are having a standout season. With a save percentage of 77.6% and 52 saves, they are 1st in the league. Conversely, Reds’ bullpen struggles have seen them miss saving opportunities regularly, with just a 70% conversion rate.
What to Expect
As both teams gear up for this crucial match-up, fans can expect an exciting battle filled with momentum swings. The Reds will aim to capitalize on any mistakes by the Guardians, while Cleveland hopes their strong pitching and productive offense can carry them to victory.
Betting Insight: Analysts suggest that betting on the Guardians might be wise given their better overall record and strong pitching performance this season. However, recent form from Junis could throw a wrench into that prediction.
Conclusion
Tonight, the Cincinnati Reds are playing against the Cleveland Guardians, and it’s a big deal for both teams. Each game is important as the season comes to an end, and this rivalry makes it even more exciting for the fans. Everyone can look forward to a fun night of baseball! Don’t forget to watch the game at 6:40 PM ET on Bally Sports Ohio. It’s going to be a night full of action!
