Ohio Cup: Round 2
The Ohio Cup saw the Cleveland Guardians win the first two games of the series against the Cincinnati Reds. The second series could very well see them doing the same.
While the Guardians are just under .500, they are only three games out of first place in the American League Central. The Reds have struggled all season, could that change against their rivals?
Let’s check the latest MLB picks, stats, injury reports and MLB odds for Reds vs Guardians. We’ve plenty of MLB predictions.
Reds: Heartbreaking Loss
While the Cincinnati Reds have the worst record in the majors, their pitching was amazing on Sunday. However, despite two pitchers throwing a combined no-hitter, they still lost the game 1-0 on eighth-inning, bases-loaded groundout.
Those bases were loaded because of three walks, a problem that needs fixing for Cincinnati to have hope against the Cleveland Guardians. Starting pitcher Connor Overton (1-0 1.59 ERA) is averaging around three walks per nine innings, something that bodes well for the Reds.
On offense, Colin Moran could make an impact. While he struggled against the Pittsburgh Pirates over the weekend series, the extra day rest could be what he needs to get on track with his bat.
Guardians Have Tools to Sweep Series
In the Cleveland Guardians’ last 10 games, they have scored 52 runs off 89 hits and 11 home runs. Averaging 1.1 homers over the 10-game stretch, look for them to go yard at least one time in the series opener. In their Sunday loss to the Minnesota Twins, the Guardians’ sole run was from a home run.
Their .251 batting average for 2022 ranks them in the top five in MLB. However, they need support from their pitching staff, which is averaging a 4.18 ERA. That ERA ranks them 25th in baseball, putting pressure on their offense.
Starting pitcher Zach Plesac (1-3 4.68 ERA) might not inspire confidence for the Guardians. He’ll need to pitch his best game to keep his team competitive.
Reds vs Guardians Head-to-Head
The Clevelands Guardians are a -158 sportsbook favorite for this game. They also hold a four-game winning streak over the Cincinnati Reds dating back to the 2021 season.
In their first series of 2022, the Guardians won in a commanding fashion, outscoring Cincinnati 17-8. However, the Reds are looking to turn a corner after having losing streaks of 11 games and nine games this season.
Reds vs Guardians Game Information
- Game: Reds (9-26) vs Guardians (16-17)
- Location: Progressive Field, Cleveland, OH
- Day/Time: Tuesday, May 17, 6:10 p.m. ET
- Reds vs Guardians Live Stream: MLB.TV
Reds vs Guardians Betting Lines
| Team | Handicap | Moneyline | Total | Team Total |
| Cincinnati Reds
C. Overton -R |
+1½ -145 | +143 | 8 -115o | 3½ -115o /
3½ -115u |
| Cleveland Guardians
Z. Plesac -R |
-1½ +125 | -158 | 8 -105u | 4½ -105o /
4½ -125u |
Reds vs Guardians Prediction
While the Cincinnati Reds lost two in a row, they are 6-4 in their last 10 games. The Cleveland Guardians are also 6-4 in their last 10. However, the Reds have the best pitcher starting for Tuesday’s game.
When looking at the betting side, the Reds are 14-21 against the spread and 4-17 straight up on the road. The Guardians are 17-16 ATS and 7-5 at home ATS.
When you’re betting online and making your MLB picks and parlays, taking the Reds on the moneyline is the best move.
