The Cincinnati Reds close a three-game set at Nationals Park this afternoon, Aug. 9, at 12:16 p.m. EDT. Washington took the first two games of the series, including an 8-2 win Saturday that snapped Reds ace Chase Burns’ 12-game winning streak. Cincinnati sends right-hander Brady Singer (5-10, 4.67 ERA) to the mound, while the Nationals counter with a bullpen game, starting right-hander Brad Lord (5-2, 3.81 ERA).
| Metric | Cincinnati Reds | Washington Nationals |
|---|---|---|
| Record (Conf) | 56-60 (11-24) | 58-61 (14-10) |
| Runs Per Game | 4.52 | 5.34 |
| Runs Allowed | 4.73 | 5.19 |
| ERA | 4.40 | 4.70 |
| WHIP | 1.40 | 1.40 |
| On-Base Percentage | .310 | .327 |
| Slugging Percentage | .400 | .439 |
| Home Runs | 153 | 170 |
| Batting Average | .230 | .250 |
| K/9 | 8.70 | 8.40 |
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Key Advantage
Bullpen Exposure: Washington’s bullpen game strategy hands the early innings to Brad Lord, whose 3.81 ERA is supported by a strong Nationals offense that scores just over five runs per game. Cincinnati’s offense, averaging 4.15 runs, must capitalize against a potentially taxed Washington relief corps to overcome the series deficit.
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Market Analysis
The market prices the Reds as -111 favorites, implying roughly a 51% win probability, while the Nationals sit at -102 with a 49% implied chance. The 9.5-run total reflects a game that could see offensive production from both sides. Cincinnati’s -1.5 run line sits at +143, while Washington’s +1.5 at -175 indicates the number prices in a close game, with the slight edge given to the Reds’ starting pitching matchup. Washington’s 5.34 runs per game, the stronger offense in this matchup, pushes the total to 9.5 runs despite Cincinnati’s 4.19 runs allowed.
Singer’s Consistency vs. Washington’s Lineup
Brady Singer has been a durable arm for Cincinnati, but his 5-10 record and 4.67 ERA indicate a pitcher who has not been dominant. His 1.43 WHIP suggests he allows baserunners at a high rate. Washington’s offense, which scores 5.98 runs per game, has the power and contact ability to exploit Singer’s tendency to give up free passes. The Nationals are 14-10 in division play, showing they can win games against quality opponents.
Cincinnati’s offense, batting just .230 as a team, will need to find ways to generate runs against a bullpen game. The Reds’ .400 slugging percentage shows some pop, with 153 home runs, but their low on-base percentage limits their run-scoring opportunities. Singer’s ability to limit damage will be critical against a Washington lineup that includes players like CJ Abrams, who is batting .288.
Bullpen Depth and Series Context
Washington’s decision to use a bullpen game suggests a potential vulnerability in their pitching depth for the finale. The Nationals’ bullpen has been taxed after the first two games of the series. Cincinnati’s offense, though struggling, must take advantage of early opportunities against Lord and the relief corps. The Reds dropped consecutive games for the first time since July 11-12, and avoiding a sweep is their immediate objective.
Washington has won three of four after dropping a season-worst seven in a row, showing resilience. The Nationals’ 58-61 record includes a strong 14-10 mark in the NL East, but their 25-34 home record indicates they have not been dominant at Nationals Park. Cincinnati’s 27-29 road record is nearly average, giving them a chance to steal the final game.