Cubs vs Reds Showdown
The Chicago Cubs are in a pivotal stretch as they face off against the Cincinnati Reds in the third game of their four-game series at Great American Ballpark. With the regular season nearing its end, every game holds significant weight for playoff positioning. The Cubs are vying for the top wild card seed, while the Reds are desperate to secure the final wild card spot, currently held by the New York Mets.
Game Details
Date: Saturday, September 20
Time: 5:40 p.m. CT
Location: Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati
Watch: Marquee Sports Network (Cubs), FanDuel Sports Network Ohio (Reds)
Listen: 670 The Score and WRTO 1200 (Cubs), WLW 700 (Reds)
Probable Pitchers
The matchup on the mound features Cubs’ right-hander Javier Assad and Reds’ Zack Littell.
Javier Assad’s Impact
Javier Assad (3-1, 4.23 ERA) has emerged as a vital asset for the Cubs since rejoining the starting rotation, particularly as the team has grappled with injuries to key pitchers Jameson Taillon and Michael Soroka. Assad has found success, winning his last three outings. His most recent performance was a relief stint where he delivered 2.1 scoreless innings, allowing just two hits and two walks while striking out one. Over 27.2 innings this season, he has recorded 15 strikeouts against nine walks, showcasing his versatility as both a starter and a reliever during this crucial time of year.
Zack Littell’s Struggles
On the opposing side, Zack Littell (9-8, 3.86 ERA) has experienced a rough patch since being acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays at the trade deadline. Over his last seven starts, he has failed to secure a decision, posting a 5.00 ERA. Littell’s last outing against the St. Louis Cardinals saw him surrender five hits and four earned runs in 5.2 innings of work, although he did manage to strike out three batters without issuing a walk. The Reds hope he can regain his form and help push their wild card aspirations forward.
Cubs Injury Updates
The Cubs are navigating through a series of injuries that could impact their playoff run:
Owen Caissie, OF: Currently on the 7-day concussion list since September 7; he is experiencing ongoing symptoms and may not return this season.
Kyle Tucker, OF: On the 10-day IL due to left calf tightness, Tucker has been sent to Florida for rehabilitation and has begun running.
Miguel Amaya, C: Recovering from a left ankle sprain, Amaya is currently on a rehab assignment at Triple-A Iowa.
Daniel Palencia, RHP: On the 15-day IL with a right shoulder strain, Palencia started a rehab assignment on Friday.
Ryan Brasier, RHP: Also on the 15-day IL due to a left groin strain, Brasier has not provided recent updates on his condition.
Eli Morgan, RHP: On the 60-day IL since April 15 due to a right elbow issue, Morgan is currently in a rehab assignment at Triple-A Iowa.
Justin Steele, LHP: Out for the season following left elbow surgery, Steele was placed on the 60-day IL.
With the season on the line, both teams will be eager to claim victory and bolster their playoff hopes in this critical matchup. The Cubs are looking to bounce back from two consecutive losses in the series, while the Reds are determined to keep their postseason dreams alive.
