Cincinnati Reds vs Cleveland Guardians Picks and Predictions May 17th 2025

Starter Slade Cecconi set to make Guardians debut against Reds

The Cleveland Guardians are about to see what newly acquired pitcher Slade Cecconi can deliver as he gears up for his long-awaited debut. Cecconi, a former Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander, will take the mound Saturday night in the second game of the Ohio Cup series against the Cincinnati Reds—a matchup filled with implications for both teams.

Cecconi Steps In Amid Guardians’ Rotation Woes

Cleveland’s rotation has taken a hit with Ben Lively landing on the injured list due to a flexor strain. Enter Slade Cecconi, acquired during the offseason in the Josh Naylor trade. While fans have yet to see him pitch in a Guardians uniform, Saturday’s debut offers a timely glimpse into his potential impact.

Cecconi began the 2025 season on the injured list himself, nursing a left oblique strain sustained during spring training. Now healthy, the 25-year-old will be tested in a high-pressure environment.

What to Know About Slade Cecconi

• Career Record: 2-8
• Career ERA: 6.06
• Strikeouts: 84 in 104 innings
• Previous Appearances Against Reds: 3 starts, 0-1 record, 4.32 ERA

While not known for his strikeout ability, Cecconi has shown flashes of command and resilience, especially when backed by a strong infield defense. Don’t Miss The Latest Baseball Picks from MLB Expert Handicappers

Jose Ramirez Anchors Guardians Offense

Fortunately for Cecconi, he won’t have to pitch against Jose Ramirez, who’s enjoying one of the hottest months of his career. The six-time All-Star is currently riding a 10-game hitting streak and batting an eye-popping .362 in May, a notable surge from his .260 mark in April.

He has homered in three straight games, and manager Stephen Vogt couldn’t be more confident:

“I never worry about Hosey. He’s always gonna get it going. So you just sit back and watch and enjoy the show.”

Best MLB

Handicapping Membership

Get Free Trial

Reds Rely on Opener Strategy Against Guardians

The Cincinnati Reds are opting for a pitching tandem approach, starting with veteran Brent Suter (1-0, 2.08 ERA), followed by rookie Chase Petty, who has struggled in his early MLB appearances.

• Brent Suter vs Guardians: 1-0, 1.86 ERA in 4 appearances
• Chase Petty’s 2025 Stats: 0-2, 21.94 ERA

Petty, a 2021 first-round pick, gave up 13 earned runs in just 5.1 innings over two starts this season. Most recently, he allowed six walks in three innings against the Astros.

“Too many walks. Too many free bags,” Petty admitted. “I’m going to work on it in my bullpen this week and just work off of that.”

Offensive Leaders to Watch

Cincinnati Reds

• Elly De La Cruz: Leads the team with 8 HRs, 31 RBIs, and 46 hits
• Gavin Lux: Former Dodger batting .297 with a .386 OBP

Why This Game Matters

This is more than just a debut or a series. The Ohio Cup carries bragging rights and momentum implications. For the Guardians, Cecconi’s outing could solidify their mid-rotation options. For the Reds, it’s about stabilizing a volatile pitching staff while leaning on emerging stars like Elly De La Cruz.

Conclusion

Slade Cecconi’s Guardians debut is more than just another start—it’s a pivotal chapter in Cleveland’s injury-hit rotation. With rising stars and proven veterans on both sides, Saturday’s contest promises to be a compelling display of potential and perseverance.