Nationals Vs. Reds

Nationals vs. Reds Betting: Will You Regret Not Betting on the Underdog?

Game Info: Sunday, July 21, 2024, 6:45 AM EST (Nationals Park, Washington)

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Nationals (+120) / Reds (-140)
• Run Line: Nationals +1.5 (+180) / Reds -1.5 (-200)
• Over/Under: 8.5 runs (Over -110 / Under -110)

Washington Nationals Betting Preview

The Nationals (38-57) are coming off a devastating series loss to the Milwaukee Brewers and they are limping into this Nationals at Reds series. Despite being in the lower half of the league, in both batting average and runs, scored their offensive problems persist. Juan Soto is still a lone hope, but it has been frustrating to watch the lack of steady production all around him.

Furthermore, pitching hasn’t been particularly helpful. Their starting rotation, which has been badly harmed by injuries, consists of a variety of arms. With the Nationals facing the Reds, Anibal Sanchez is anticipated to start at first base. Although, this season, he hasn’t shown much the veteran right-hander is a crafty pitcher who can frustrate opposing hitters if he can restrict walks and locate his pitches well.

Nationals Betting Trends

• The Nationals have lost seven of their last ten games.
• Four of their previous six games have had the over indicating a potential offensive explosion.
• Their poor road record (18–32) away from Nationals Park raises serious concerns.

Cincinnati Reds Betting Preview

Like the Nationals, the Reds (42–53) are in a similar situation. They have been incredibly inconsistent offensively this season languishing in last place in the NL Central. While Joey Votto remains a formidable force in the middle of the lineup, the stability of the supporting cast has been lacking leaving him without adequate cover.

Furthermore, lacking in consistency has been the pitching staff. Their most reliable starter has been Luis Castillo, but the rest of the rotation has been a constant source of uncertainty. In this Nationals at Reds game, Hunter Greene, a young pitcher with a fiery streak, is anticipated to start for the Reds. Although Greene has displayed moments of brilliance and a fastball that can overwhelm hitters, he occasionally struggles with control. The way he manages to develop his inherent talent will be crucial to how the game turns out.

Reds Betting Trends

• With four wins in their previous six games, the Reds have been playing better lately.
• During the last seven games, the under has been hit five times suggesting a potential pitching matchup.
• Not much has changed with their 23–27 home record at Great American Ball Park.

Matchup/League Facts

• The season series between the Nationals and Reds ends with this game. The first two meetings took place in Washington DC and the Nationals came out on top.
• The Nationals have struggled recently going 4-6 against National League Central opponents in their last ten games.
• Despite splitting their last 10 games at 5-5, the Reds have a marginally better record against National League East teams.

Washington Nationals at Cincinnati Reds Prediction

This Nationals vs. Reds game is a quintessential underachiever’s battle. Both teams have experienced pitching difficulties and offensive difficulties. The decisive factor might be Sanchez vs. Greene’s starting pitching matchup. On the road, the Nationals could steal a win if Sanchez can put up innings and limit the Reds’ offensive output. But if Greene can pinpoint his fastball and restrict walks, the Nationals hitters may have a difficult day.

Given the Nationals’ poor road performance and the Reds’ recent success with home runs, the oddsmakers have Cincinnati as the slight favorite. Even so, the total of 8.5 runs is an interesting proposition because this game could be a close low-scoring contest.

Prediction: Reds win 4-2

The Nationals might be worth a point if they score runs on the run line (+1.5) even though the Reds are the clear favorites to win this Nationals at Reds game. Sanchez is a seasoned player who is adept at managing the lineup and his performance could provide much-needed spark to the Nationals’ offense. If you believe that Greene can intimidate the Nationals’ hitters, then going with the Reds moneyline (-140) could be a wise decision.

It is challenging to evaluate this game in terms of total runs. Even though both teams have struggled offensively on occasion, the pitching matchup might make for a low-scoring contest. Despite the overs’ allure, it might be wiser to go with the under (8.5 runs) if you anticipate either team to explode offensively.

On July 21, the Nationals at Reds game is expected to be a contest between two teams trying to find their identity. Pitching may prove to be the deciding factor in the game because both teams are offensively struggling and depending on young arms. If a bettor can spot the possible x-factor that might tip, the odds in their favor this game presents interesting betting opportunities.