Reds vs Marlins, Game 3: Preview and Predictions

After swiping a the Ohio Cup away from the Cleveland Indians, the Reds are facing a series sweep from the Miami Marlins this afternoon. Luckily, Johnny "Ace" Cueto takes the mound this afternoon against the two-handed Brad Hand. Prior to today's start, no Reds have hit against Hand before.

This lack of experience against the left-handed Hand, a former second round pick for the Marlins, could pose as a difficulty for Cincinnati. Thus far, Hand has carried a respectable ERA of 4.03 this season over 9 starts and several relief appearances. Hand averages 5.6 strikeouts per nine innings and is holding a WHIP of 1.418. Over 67 innings this season, his ERA+ lies at 96.

Cueto will look to build upon the momentum he has gained over his past five starts. He has not lost a game since July 2 while he is coming off of a complete game two-run outing against the Indians where he threw 117 pitches. It should be noted that several members of the Marlins have been tough outs for Cueto in his career. Garrett Jones has a career OBP against Cueto of .348 in 46 plate appearances .Meanwhile, Reed Johnson has an OPS of .971 in 17 plate appearances. Giancarlo Stanton has not only homered, but also tripled and collected another hit in 9 at bats against Cueto.

Charlie Scrabbles and KC Gardner's favorite player leads off today for the Reds with Jay Bruce batting second and Todd Frazier filling out the top of the lineup. With the rest of the lineup featuring Ramon Santiago and Chris Heisey, Hot August Bruce may need to carry the Reds offense yet another game if the Reds are to avoid a sweep today.

Go Reds!

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