Reds Playoffs vs. Braves, Game 1: A Preview

Let’s fucking go.

It’s been seven years since the Reds have been in the playoffs.

They’re back.

The Reds are sending out maybe the National League Cy Young winner in Trevor Bauer. You know how good he’s been this season. You know how good he needs to be today.

Thing is, the Braves are also sending out a Cy Young award nominee. In fact, up until landing on the IL on September 8, Max Fried had a 1.98 ERA and was tied with B-Refs pitcher WAR lead with Shane Bieber. You’ll notice that those two pitchers are in different leagues.

Fried has allowed more than two runs in a game exactly once this season, when he allowed three runs the start before he went on the IL. He also doesn’t go particularly deep into games, exceeding six innings pitched only twice this season.

Fried hasn’t been much of a strikeout guy this season, but he limits hits and home runs with the best of them and...

well..

I don’t care.

The Reds are back in the playoffs for the first time in seven years. It’s a weird year, for sure. But these are the playoffs. It feels like the playoffs and...

Let’s. Go.

Cincinnati Lineup

Atlanta Lineup