Cincinnati Reds vs. Tampa Bay Rays: Preview, Predictions and Picks for July 26, 2024

Published on:
Jul 26, 2024 6:11 AM
The Cincinnati Reds, with a 24-25 road record, travel to Tropicana Field to take on the Tampa Bay Rays, who are 27-27 at home, on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 6:50 PM. The Rays, currently 52-51 overall, look to capitalize on their home advantage against the 49-53 Reds. Expect a competitive matchup as both teams fight to gain ground in their respective divisions.
Written by
Optimal Staff
Cincinnati Reds
Tampa Bay Rays

Reds vs Rays starting pitchers

  • Shane Baz for Tampa Bay Rays
  • Nick Lodolo for Cincinnati Reds

Reds vs Rays statistics

Stat Reds Rays
Hits 772 (28th) 790 (26th)
Batting Average .231 (28th) .233 (23rd)
Runs Batted In 429 (14th) 373 (27th)
Runs 456 (14th) 400 (27th)
Home Runs 114 (13th) 97 (26th)
Walks 313 (16th) 333 (9th)
Stolen Bases 146 (1st) 104 (Tied-4th)
Strikeouts 922 (Tied-5th) 918 (7th)
Pitches 14612 (23rd) 15358 (5th)

Tampa Bay Rays recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
7/25/24 @ Toronto Blue Jays W 13-0
7/24/24 @ Toronto Blue Jays L 6-3
7/23/24 @ Toronto Blue Jays W 4-2
7/22/24 @ New York Yankees L 9-1
7/21/24 @ New York Yankees W 6-4

Cincinnati Reds recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
7/24/24 @ Atlanta Braves W 9-4
7/22/24 @ Atlanta Braves W 4-1
7/21/24 @ Washington Nationals L 5-2
7/20/24 @ Washington Nationals L 5-4
7/19/24 @ Washington Nationals L 8-5

Reds vs Rays predictions

With Nick Lodolo taking the mound for the Cincinnati Reds, we can expect a solid performance given his commendable stats this season, striking out 89 in just over 84 innings. Lodolo's precise pitching could very well keep some of Tampa's bats at bay. On the offensive front, watch out for Elly De La Cruz, who's been swinging a hot bat with 18 homers to his name. His versatility and speed on the bases, especially against a struggling Rays' pitching staff, could be crucial. Also, Jonathan India, with a batting average of .271, could be pivotal in setting the table for the power hitters.

Turning our gaze to the Rays, they're sending Shane Baz to the hill, who's still hunting for his first win of the season. Baz, struggling with a WHIP of 1.76, might find it tough against the aggressive Reds' lineup. However, Tampa's offense might find momentum in Isaac Paredes who leads the team with 16 home runs. Although the Rays have been underperforming offensively, they might see this matchup as a chance to turn things around. Keep an eye on Jose Siri as well; his power could deliver critical runs if he connects well.

Considering the current dynamics and recent performances, the Reds seem like they might have the upper hand in this encounter. Their potent mix of speed, youth, and power provides a distinct edge over the Rays’ struggling offense. Though Tampa Bay's pitching could put up a fight, Cincinnati's lineup appears more equipped to exploit any slips. Thus, my nod goes towards the Reds clinching a win in what promises to be an intriguing battle.

Tampa Bay Rays injuries

  • Richard Lovelady (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Yandy Diaz (1B): Out
  • Jeffrey Springs (SP): 60-Day-IL
  • Ryan Pepiot (SP): 15-Day-IL
  • Drew Rasmussen (SP): 60-Day-IL

Cincinnati Reds injuries

  • TJ Friedl (CF): 10-Day-IL
  • Luke Maile (C): 10-Day-IL
  • Carson Spiers (SP): 15-Day-IL
  • Brent Suter (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Emilio Pagan (RP): 60-Day-IL

Reds vs Rays game info

Venue Tropicana Field
Location St. Petersburg, Florida
First pitch Fri 6:50 PM
TV Bally Sports OH
Temperature 86°
Chance of Rain 68%

Cincinnati Reds vs. Tampa Bay Rays Betting Odds

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