Reds Playoffs vs. Braves, Game 2: Preview and Lineups

The Cincinnati Reds’ first postseason appearance in seven years did not get off to an ideal start. The Reds outhit the Atlanta Braves 11-3 going into the bottom of the 13th inning, yet still came away from yesterday facing elimination after a 1-0 loss. They got an outstanding performance from Trevor Bauer and the bullpen was just as effective as the game went on and on. The offense, however, failed to get a run across the plate despite multiple chances with runners in scoring position. Postseason baseball, as they say, is unpredictable, but that was probably the most 2020 Reds’ loss we could have expected.

Now the Reds face elimination and will put their hopes in Luis Castillo to keep playing another day. Castillo continues to build on his stellar young career, but no start is bigger than the one he’s making today. He comes into the playoffs after posting a career-high K/9 (11.4) and K/BB (3.71) in 2020. Facing a team that mashes the ball like the Braves, he will need to keep that up.

Atlanta will counter with Ian Anderson. Anderson has been fantastic in his first season in the big leagues. The rookie right-hander has made 6 starts on the season and put up a 1.95 ERA. He strikes out 11.4 per 9 innings and is great at keeping runners off base. The Reds will need to string together hits better than they did yesterday if they want to chase him early.

It’s elimination day for the Reds. I, for one, would like to see them play again tomorrow. Go Reds.

Cincinnati Lineup

Atlanta Lineup