Cincinnati Reds vs St. Louis Cardinals Picks and Predictions April 30th 2025

Reds Eye Doubleheader Sweep as Hays’ Status Remains Unclear

After rain postponed Tuesday’s contest, the Cincinnati Reds hope to keep their hot streak alive during Wednesday’s doubleheader against the struggling St. Louis Cardinals. The Reds also await word on the status of red-hot slugger Austin Hays.

Hays’ Hamstring Injury Clouds Game 1 and 2 Availability

Austin Hays, batting .365 with five home runs and 13 RBIs in just 13 games, was not in Tuesday’s original lineup before the game was postponed. Reds manager Terry Francona revealed Hays underwent an MRI on his hamstring after sprinting home from first base during Monday’s 3-1 win.

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No decision had been made on his availability for either game of the doubleheader.

Marte Leading the Reds’ Charge

Noelvi Marte continued his impressive form with an RBI triple and two walks Monday. He is now batting .471 (16-for-34) with 16 RBIs over his past eight games.

“He’s been a good worker, and he was the same worker when we sat him down in spring training, which is always a good sign,” Francona said.

Marte started the season in Triple-A but earned his way back and has since solidified the third base position with consistent play and plate discipline. That resurgence has made Cincinnati a team to watch in current MLB Picks Against the Spread, especially with their offense firing and defense clicking.

Cardinals Reeling on the Road

The Cardinals enter the doubleheader with a dismal 2-12 road record. Monday’s loss showcased Cincinnati’s defensive sharpness, with highlight plays from TJ Friedl, Jose Trevino, and Matt McLain neutralizing key scoring threats.

“You’re hoping for a crooked number there… But that didn’t happen,” Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said.

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St. Louis has had no answer for the Reds’ energy and execution.

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Probable Pitching Matchups

Game 1 will feature Cardinals veteran Miles Mikolas (0-2, 5.70 ERA) against Reds right-hander Brady Singer (4-0, 3.62 ERA). Despite his winless record, Mikolas pitched six shutout innings against Atlanta in his last start but still received a no-decision. Singer, meanwhile, has enjoyed immense run support, with the Reds scoring 42 runs in his outings this season.

In Game 2, Cardinals lefty Steven Matz (2-0, 1.80 ERA) will get the ball. He is 4-1 with a 4.40 ERA in his career vs. Cincinnati. The Reds have yet to announce their starter for the nightcap.