Reds Return Home Looking to Regain Form Against White Sox
After a grueling stretch of 17 games in as many days, the Cincinnati Reds finally caught their breath with a much-needed day off. Now, they’ll return to Great American Ball Park on Tuesday night to open a three-game set against the visiting Chicago White Sox. For both clubs, it’s a battle to rediscover rhythm and consistency as the season rolls into mid-May.
Reds Seeking Reset After Tough Stretch
Cincinnati (losers of seven of its last nine) is in dire need of a spark. After dropping two of three against the Astros, including a 6-0 shutout on Sunday, the Reds are hoping home cooking and a rested roster will jumpstart a turnaround.
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“I told them to flush it… But we also need to show up ready to go.”
— Terry Francona, Reds Manager
The Reds’ bullpen was taxed heavily in the final two games in Houston, using 12 pitchers after abbreviated outings by Brady Singer and Chase Petty. With the team regrouped and recharged, Andrew Abbott (2-0, 2.25 ERA) gets the nod to open the series.
Abbott is riding a 10-inning scoreless streak and last pitched on May 6, holding the Braves to zero earned runs over five innings in a hard-luck no-decision. He has only faced the White Sox once before, allowing just one run over seven innings in an April 2024 victory.
Abbott’s growing consistency has made him a popular name among fans looking for reliable MLB betting picks and prop plays.
Elko Gives White Sox a Needed Jolt
For a team that’s dead last in MLB in batting average (.214) and near the bottom in runs and home runs, the White Sox needed a change—and they may have found it in rookie first baseman Tim Elko.
Called up just prior to the Miami series, Elko launched a three-run homer on Sunday to lift the Sox to a rare series win over the Marlins.
“That was awesome and a great moment for him… a huge hit.”
— Will Venable, White Sox Manager
Elko’s emergence could spell trouble for struggling veteran Andrew Vaughn, who’s batting just .191 on the season. Chicago will hope the 25-year-old can add life to a stagnant lineup that’s lacked power and run production all year.
On the mound, Jonathan Cannon (2-4, 4.09 ERA) will try to continue his quiet momentum. He’s thrown three straight quality starts, allowing just two runs in each of his last two outings. Tuesday will mark Cannon’s first appearance against Cincinnati.
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What to Watch
- Can the Reds shake off their recent skid and protect home turf?
- Will Elko provide the power boost Chicago so desperately needs?
- Can Abbott extend his scoreless streak and anchor a bounce-back?
Both teams are in search of a rhythm, and this series opener could go a long way in shaping their May trajectory.