The Cincinnati Reds (64-55) host the Chicago Cubs (52-68) at Great American Ballpark for a crucial NL Central matchup. First pitch is set for 7:10 PM EST.

Key Game Details:

• Reds are 2nd in NL Central, 8 games behind Brewers
• Cubs have lost 10 straight games
• Reds lead season series 6-4

Betting Lines (DraftKings):

• Reds: -1.5 (-115), ML -235
• Cubs: +1.5 (-105), ML +190
• Over/Under: 9 runs

Pitching Matchup:

• Cubs: Justin Steele (2-1, 2.95 ERA)

• Second start this season after returning from hamstring injury

• 22 K's in 18.1 innings pitched

• Reds: Wade Miley (9-4, 3.00 ERA)

• 97 K's in 126 innings

• Struggled last start: 5 IP, 5 H, 5 ER

Injury Report: Reds:

• Jesse Winker: Just returned from IL (back)
• Nick Senzel: Expected back this month (knee)
• Multiple relievers on IL including Antone, Brach, Alaniz

Cubs:

• Wilson Contreras: Out until September (knee)
• Multiple players on 60-day IL

Playoff Picture:

• Reds: 2 games out of NL Wild Card spot
• 14 of remaining 42 games vs teams above .500
• Strong offense: 5th in BA (.252), 3rd in OBP (.333)
• Pitching needs improvement: 19th in ERA (4.48)

The Reds look to capitalize on the struggling Cubs to gain ground in the playoff race. Their powerful offense led by Winker, Castellanos and Votto will be key against the inexperienced Steele.

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