Mets vs Reds Picks and Predictions

Mets vs Reds Picks and Predictions September 5th 2025

Two teams with postseason hopes hanging in the balance clash this weekend as the New York Mets visit the Cincinnati Reds in a critical three-game National League Wild Card battle. While both clubs have seen recent struggles, this series could either revive or bury playoff dreams heading into the final stretch of the season.

A Tale of Two Teams Losing Grip

At one point in August, the Mets and Reds looked like they were locked in a head-to-head race for the last Wild Card spot. But a combination of inconsistent pitching and the surging Giants has complicated that narrative.

Heading into Friday’s game, the Mets are 75-65 — just one game behind the Padres for the second Wild Card slot. The Reds, however, have dropped to 70-70 and are now five games behind New York.

Friday’s Pitching Duel: Peterson vs Abbott

Friday’s opener features a lefty-lefty showdown between All-Stars David Peterson and Andrew Abbott. Both had rough outings in their last appearances, and each team desperately needs a bounce-back.

Pitcher	Team	W-L	ERA	Last Start
David Peterson	New York Mets	8-5	3.61	8 ER in 2+ IP vs Marlins
Andrew Abbott	Cincinnati Reds	8-5	2.65	2 ER in 5 IP vs Cardinals

Peterson’s start against Miami was his worst of the year, giving up eight runs in just over two innings. Abbott, meanwhile, allowed two runs in five innings but got little help from the Reds’ offense.

Check updated MLB picks for real-time predictions before placing bets.

Mets’ Roster Rotation: Youth Taking the Reins

New York is relying heavily on young arms. Five of their last 11 wins have come from rookie starters Nolan McLean and Jonah Tong — both of whom began the month in the minors. Now, rookie Brandon Sproat is expected to start Sunday in place of struggling veteran Kodai Senga.

The rotation is thin, and Mets starters have lasted five innings or fewer in 11 of the last 18 games.

Recent Mets Form

Despite the inconsistency, the Mets are 11-7 since August 16, trailing only the Giants in NL win percentage over that span.

Team	Record Since Aug 16	Current Streak	NL Wild Card Rank
New York Mets	11-7	L1	3rd (1 GB of Padres)
Cincinnati Reds	6-12	L2	6th (5 GB of Mets)

Stay updated on MLB odds and results as the Wild Card picture evolves.

Reds’ Collapses Becoming a Pattern

The Reds are going through a painful stretch. Since August 15, they’ve posted a league-worst 6-12 record and have repeatedly let early leads slip away.

That includes a 13-9 loss to the Blue Jays on Wednesday, where Cincinnati gave up a 5-0 lead, and a recent 10-8 loss to Milwaukee after being up 8-1. In fact, they’ve held leads in 9 of their last 12 losses.

Head-to-Head Pitching History

Both pitchers have limited but telling experience against their opponent.

Pitcher	Record vs Opponent	ERA	Innings Pitched
David Peterson	0-1	4.34	18.2
Andrew Abbott	0-1	3.68	14.2

Neither pitcher has a win, but Abbott has been slightly more effective in limited innings.

Game Prediction and Best Bets

While both teams are reeling in different ways, the Mets’ youth movement has been holding up better than Cincinnati’s struggling bullpen and inconsistent bats.

Pick: Mets ML (-110)
Prediction: Mets 5, Reds 4

For sharper wagering tips, dive into the MLB expert betting guide.

Explore the Teams

Take a closer look at both ballclubs as they chase October baseball:

FAQs

Who is starting for the Mets vs Reds?

David Peterson will start for the Mets and Andrew Abbott will start for the Reds in a battle of lefties.

How have the Mets performed recently?

The Mets are 11-7 since August 16, relying heavily on rookie pitchers for wins.

Why have the Reds been losing so much?

The Reds have repeatedly blown early leads and have been outscored 104-80 in their last 18 games.

What’s at stake in this series?

The Mets are fighting for a Wild Card spot, and the Reds are trying to stay alive in the race.

Has Peterson faced the Reds before?

Yes, he’s 0-1 with a 4.34 ERA across four starts.

Where can I find more MLB picks and predictions?

Right here: MLB picks and predictions

Cincinnati Reds vs New York Mets Picks and Predictions September 5th 2025