Cardinals aim to rebound in Cincinnati as they face the Reds in key NL playoff-chase action
The St. Louis Cardinals (66-69) travel to Cincinnati to take on the Reds (68-66) in a three-game series that could shake up the tight race for a National League wild-card spot. The matchup pits Matthew Liberatore of the Cardinals against Zack Littell of the Reds.
Series outlook and current form
– The two clubs are tied 4-4 in the season series heading into this weekend set.
– The Cardinals are limping in a bit, going 2-4 over their last six games, while Cincinnati has struggled more recently at 1-6 over the past seven games (0-3 in the last three).
– Standings-wise, Cincinnati sits 4.0 games back of the final NL Wild Card, and St. Louis is 6.5 back.
Game details
– Date and time: Friday, August 29, 2025, 6:40 PM ET
– Site: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati
– TV/streaming: Regional outlets (specifics noted in local listings)
– Series format: Three games
Projected pitching matchup
– Cardinals: Matthew Liberatore (6-11, 4.27 ERA)
– Last outing: Challenged by control and command, with 4 earned runs allowed on 3 hits along with 3 walks and 5 strikeouts
– Reds: Zack Littell (9-8, 3.58 ERA)
– Last outing: Issued 3 earned runs on 4 hits with 3 walks and 3 strikeouts
Odds and betting notes
– Moneyline: Cardinals +106; Reds -126
– Spread: Reds -1.5
– Total (Over/Under): 9.0 runs
– Trends to watch:
– The Over has hit in 7 of the last 9 combined games for the two teams
– The Cardinals have not consistently covered the run line (5 of their last 6)
– Both teams have shown recent struggles against stronger opponents
What to watch for
– Liberatore’s ability to settle into the game early and keep the Reds’ lineup from exploiting mistakes will be crucial, especially on the road in a hitter-friendly park.
– Littell’s mix of grounders and strikeouts will be tested by St. Louis’ lineup as Cincinnati looks to push across runs in a favorable ballpark environment.
– Bullpen usage could play a decisive role as both teams try to navigate late-inning pressure and avoid extending the game beyond a controllable length.
Context and analysis
– This series carries significance beyond the win column, as both clubs look to maintain momentum in a crowded wild-card chase. A win for either side would provide a meaningful lift in the standings and potentially alter bullpen planning and rotation moves heading into September.
– The Great American Ball Park can be conducive to offense, so expect both clubs to lean into their power and situational hitting opportunities when opportunities arise.
Summary and outlook
This matchup offers a chance for two teams deeply invested in late-season positioning to gain ground. Liberatore will aim to steady the Cardinals and quiet a Reds attack, while Littell will look to keep St. Louis off balance and capitalize on Cincinnati’s home-field advantage. Expect a competitive, momentum-shifting game that could influence the wild-card outlook for both clubs in the closing weeks of the season.