This one is setting up to be a classic pitching duel. Hunter Greene, with his filthy fastball, is the ace Cincinnati needs right now. The Braves have been surging, but they face a Reds pitcher who’s ready to stop their streak. Below, I’ve got my preview, prediction, and best bet for this Wendesday night baseball game between the Braves and the Reds.
Here’s how I’ll play it. I’ll be pumping out these predictions for individual games all season, with plenty of coverage here on DraftKings Network. Follow my handle @dansby_edits for more betting plays.
Braves vs. Reds prediction, preview
The Reds and Braves clash in a pivotal rubber match Wednesday night at Truist Park, with the Braves riding a three-game win streak. But don’t let that fool you—Cincinnati’s Hunter Greene (4-2, 2.53 ERA) is locked in. His high-octane fastball and slider combo have kept batters on edge all season, evidenced by his remarkable 0.82 WHIP. He’s been a strikeout machine, fanning 12 in his most recent outing against Washington. Greene’s been dominant, but he’s susceptible to the long ball, with 7 homers allowed so far. Atlanta’s potent offense, led by Austin Riley and Matt Olson, will certainly test that vulnerability. However, the Braves’ offense has been stuttering; they rank 17th in the league in runs, with Riley’s .290 average providing the only consistent spark.
Atlanta’s Grant Holmes (2-2, 4.24 ERA), on the other hand, has been shaky. His control issues (5.0 BB/9 innings) and inconsistent outings, including giving up eight earned runs in his last two starts, suggest this is a spot for the Reds to capitalize. The Reds, though struggling as a team, have been successful against right-handed pitchers—Holmes’ handedness could prove to be their ticket to snapping a four-game skid. The Reds’ struggles are well-documented, but they have the edge in starting pitching, especially with Greene on the mound.
Reds vs. Braves pick, best bet
Despite the Reds’ offensive lull, they’ve shown the ability to steal bases and draw walks. With Greene likely to keep Atlanta’s bats at bay, the Reds’ offense could get just enough support, especially considering Holmes’ command issues. The Braves’ bullpen hasn’t exactly been lights out, either, which could come back to haunt them in a tight game.
As for trends, the Braves have failed to cover the run line in 11 of their last 12 night games against National League teams following a win. The Reds, though, have dominated the run line in road games after losses, covering in their last seven games at Truist Park following a road defeat.
Given Greene’s dominance and the Braves’ offensive inconsistency, expect Cincinnati to bounce back here. Gonna bet Greene until it backfires.
Best bet: Cincinnati (+100) at Braves
Greene is the prince who was promised—tail it with me in the DKN Betting Group here!
