Two series could shape the National League playoff picture
May 24, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Reds second baseman Brandon Phillips (4) hits an RBI double off St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Jaime Garcia in the sixth inning at Great American Ball Park. The Cardinals won 6-3. Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina is at left. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
Cincinnati Reds (61-63) v St. Louis Cardinals (66-57)
Why the series is important to the Reds: The Reds postseason hopes are in deep peril and now they head to St. Louis to face their division rival. Dropping the series could certainly signal the end for the Reds 2014 season.
At this point, anything short of a sweep could bring a letdown.
Why the series is important to the Cardinals: For a brief moment, let’s ignore where the Cardinals sit in the postseason races. A series sweep would all but crush Cincinnati’s dreams of yet another postseason. That would sit well with the BFIB.
Now, let’s take the Cards position into consideration. Despite inconsistent play, the Cards are still a threat to win the division as they are only three games behind Milwaukee. The Brewers aren’t running off and hiding, so if the Cards can get it in gear, winning the division is well within reach.
Pitching matchups:
Monday: Mike Leake (9-11, 3.59, 1.256) v Justin Masterson (2-1, 6.00, 1.533 w/STL; 6-7, 5.58, 1.637 overall)
Tuesday: Alfredo Simon (12-8, 3.28, 1.182) v John Lackey (1-1, 6.16, 1.579 w/STL; 12-8, 3.91, 1.273 overall)
Wednesday: Johnny Cueto (15-6, 2.06, 0.911) v Lance Lynn (13-8, 2.91, 1.292)
Series tidbit: The Cardinals lead the season series, six games to three. In those nine games, St. Louis has outscored the Reds by only six total runs (33-27).
In looking at the above tidbit of info, pitching has clearly dominated the season series. Or you can look at it as the bats have been severely lacking. Take your pick.
Speaking of BFIB, they would love nothing more than to see Lynn eclipse Cueto in the series final game. Just sayin’…
Brandon Phillips is expected to be activated for this series. Despite some pretty paltry offensive numbers, maybe his presence alonse will kickstart the Red Stockings. And he does love playing in St. Louis. Almost get the feeling this was planned.