Oakland Athletics vs Cincinnati Reds Picks and Predictions September 12th 2025

‘Hungry’ Reds in playoff chase going into road series against Athletics

Cincinnati Reds (74-72) open a crucial three-game set against the Oakland Athletics (67-80) Friday night in West Sacramento. The Reds sit just two games out of the final NL Wild Card spot, looking to sustain momentum after back-to-back series wins over the Mets and Padres. Oakland, meanwhile, is focused on player development and young stars, but remains a dangerous spoiler.

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Checking recent MLB game results shows how Cincinnati’s recovery from a September skid has put them right back in the postseason chase — and every win now is critical.

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Cincinnati Reds Can Win If…

• Brady Singer stays hot. He’s won six of his past seven decisions and dominated the Mets in his last start. If he commands his pitches, the Reds have a clear advantage.
• Timely bats deliver. Elly De La Cruz sparked Wednesday’s comeback with a single, steal, and run. Miguel Andújar added the clutch RBI. More of that is needed in a playoff-like setting.
• They avoid collapses. The Reds have blown leads recently — staying focused late is essential with their playoff margin so thin.

“Every win means everything at this point,” said Reds outfielder TJ Friedl. “We’re going to lay it on the line the rest of the season and see where we’re at.”

Oakland Athletics Can Win If…

• Power bats shine. Shea Langeliers (30 HR) and rookie Nick Kurtz (30 HR in just 102 games) provide punch. One swing could change the momentum.
• J.T. Ginn contains Reds hitters. He’s coming off a solid start vs. the Angels, but past struggles against Cincinnati suggest he needs sharper command.
• They set the tone early. With Reds pressing, if Oakland jumps ahead, they can make Cincinnati chase.

“He’s special,” said teammate Lawrence Butler about Kurtz. “The kid goes out there and just has good at-bat after good at-bat every day. Him hitting 30 homers, for us, is no surprise.”

Key MLB Betting Trends

The Leans

Main Pick: Reds Moneyline
Projected Score: Reds 5, Athletics 3

• Runline Angle: Reds -1.5 → plus-value spot with Singer on a roll and Cincinnati desperate for a statement win.
• Total Runs Angle: Over 8.5 → both clubs feature home-run threats and shaky bullpens; runs could come late.

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