Reds Look to Spark Playoff Push Against Marlins in Critical Series Opener
The Cincinnati Reds begin a crucial seven-game homestand tonight at Great American Ball Park, hosting the Miami Marlins in the first of a four-game set. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 PM ET, with right-hander Brady Singer taking the mound for Cincinnati against Miami’s surprising standout Janson Junk.
Pitching Matchup: Singer vs. Junk
- Brady Singer (CIN): The veteran innings-eater could be pitching for his future in Cincinnati, with free agency looming after the 2026 season. If the Reds continue to hover around .500, Singer may become trade bait later this month.
- Janson Junk (MIA): The Marlins right-hander has been quietly excellent in 2024, posting a 1.83 FIP and limiting home runs (just 2.6% HR/FB rate) over 37.1 innings. His fastball velocity has jumped to a career-high 94.1 mph, making him more than just a finesse pitcher.
Playoff Implications
At two games over .500, the Reds sit just 2.5 games back of the final NL Wild Card spot—but must leapfrog three teams to get there. With the lowly Colorado Rockies also visiting this homestand, this stretch could determine whether Cincinnati buys or sells at the trade deadline.
“It’s time for these Reds to start cookin’ if they’re actually going to feast this season,” as the pressure mounts for a team that has underperformed expectations.
Tonight’s Key Lineups
| Marlins | Reds |
|---|---|
| Xavier Edwards – 2B | TJ Friedl – CF |
| Jesus Sanchez – RF | Matt McLain – 2B |
| Agustin Ramirez – C | Elly De La Cruz – SS |
| Liam Hicks – DH | Austin Hays – LF |
| Kyle Stowers – LF | Gavin Lux – DH |
| Eric Wagaman – 1B | Spencer Steer – 1B |
| Connor Norby – 3B | Tyler Stephenson – C |
| Derek Hill – CF | Will Benson – RF |
| Javier Sanoja – SS | Noelvi Marte – 3B |
| Janson Junk – RHP | Brady Singer – RHP |
What to Watch
- Can the Reds’ offense solve Junk? The Marlins starter has been tough to square up this year.
- Brady Singer’s audition: If the Reds fade, strong starts could make him a trade candidate.
- Elly De La Cruz’s impact: The electric shortstop remains key to Cincinnati’s playoff hopes.
With the season at a crossroads, tonight’s game could set the tone for the rest of July.
First pitch: 7:10 PM ET at Great American Ball Park.