The Cincinnati Reds, leading the National League Central, have consistently found ways to secure victories, even with their offense struggling at times. However, their recent road trip suggests a positive shift in their batting performance. Following a significant win against the Tampa Bay Rays, Cincinnati aims to continue its success, while the Rays will rely on the consistent pitching of Steven Matz to turn the tide in the series.
Cincinnati's recent success on the road is noteworthy. They entered their six-game road trip with a four-game winning streak and extended it with a 6-1 victory over the Rays on Monday. This win marked their ninth road victory in 11 outings this season. A key factor in their Monday triumph was their improved performance with runners in scoring position, going 4-for-13, a significant improvement from their previous .178 average in such situations. In contrast, the Rays struggled, going 0-for-7.
The Reds' ability to perform in close games is also a testament to their resilience, boasting a 6-0 record in one-run games and a perfect 10-0 in games decided by two runs or fewer. This season, they have already swept two road series, a feat they only accomplished once in the entire previous season. Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz emphasized the team's commitment to "doing the little things" and "grinding," regardless of their hitting performance.
For Tuesday's game, the Reds will send Chase Burns to the mound. The 23-year-old right-hander, with a 1-1 record and a 2.42 ERA, will be making his first appearance against the Rays. Burns is coming off his second scoreless start of the season, having pitched six innings without a decision against the San Francisco Giants.
The Rays, on the other hand, will counter with the revitalized Steven Matz. The 34-year-old left-hander, who last pitched as a full-time starter in 2021, has been a pleasant surprise for Tampa Bay, sporting a 3-0 record and a 3.80 ERA. Matz has shown remarkable consistency in his four starts, allowing only nine runs on 16 hits over 21 1/3 innings, while striking out 21 and walking six. Opponents are batting a mere .208 against him. While he has a 4-1 record and a 4.46 ERA in eight career appearances against Cincinnati, the Reds have historically had some success against him, holding a .305 batting average.
Despite the Rays' offensive struggles in the opening game, manager Kevin Cash noted some positive at-bats early on, but acknowledged the Reds' pitcher's ability to recover. Tampa Bay is also managing the return of right-handed starter Joe Boyle, who has been sidelined since April 10 due to an elbow strain and is not expected back this month. Cash emphasized Boyle's importance to the team and the need to ensure his full recovery.
The upcoming game promises another intriguing matchup as the Reds look to extend their road dominance, and the Rays aim to even the series with Matz leading their pitching efforts. Cincinnati's improved offensive showing and their strong record in tight contests position them as formidable opponents, while Matz's consistent performances offer Tampa Bay a strong chance to bounce back.