The Cincinnati Reds travel to Busch Stadium to take on the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday, September 15, 2025. As both teams battle within the NL Central, the Reds currently hold a 74-75 record, while the Cardinals sit at 73-77. Despite being third in the division, the Reds have struggled recently with a three-game losing streak.
Meanwhile, the Cardinals aim to build momentum after snapping a losing streak with a recent victory against the Milwaukee Brewers. With the game being played in St. Louis, the Cardinals will rely on their solid home record of 41-34. The weather forecast for the night game predicts overcast conditions with a very hot day and a light breeze, potentially affecting play.
Both teams have similar recent performances, each with a 4-6 record in their last ten games. The Reds have managed to secure a few notable wins, such as their 4-2 victory against the San Diego Padres on September 9, while the Cardinals recently edged out the Brewers 3-2. This matchup presents a crucial opportunity for both teams to improve their standings in the NL Central division.
Cardinals vs Reds At a Glance
- Game Location: Busch Stadium in St. Louis, MO
- Weather Condition: Overcast clouds with a very hot day and a light breeze
- TV Coverage: FDSMW
- Game Odds – Moneyline: Reds +105, Cardinals -124
- Current Streaks: Reds L3, Cardinals W1
- Game Date & Time: Monday, September 15, 2025, at 7:45 PM
Cardinals Prepare for a Crucial Showdown Against Cincinnati
Team Hitting Overview
The Cardinals’ offense has been steady, with a batting average of .245 ranking them 10th in the league. Their on-base percentage sits at .313, placing them 14th. However, their slugging percentage of .379 ranks them 21st, indicating room for improvement in power hitting.
Despite having 140 home runs this season, they are positioned 23rd in the league, suggesting a need to increase their long-ball capability. They have managed to hit 238 doubles, which is a stronger point, ranking 12th. This could provide a foundation for a more consistent offensive output.
Pitching Challenges
On the mound, the Cardinals’ pitching staff has faced challenges, with an earned run average of 4.29 ranking them 21st. Their opponents have a batting average against of .258, ranking them 17th. This indicates that opposing teams are making decent contact.
They have given up 154 home runs, placing them 4th in the league, which highlights a critical issue that needs addressing. However, with 51 quality starts, they rank 11th, showing they have been able to deliver solid performances at times. Reducing blown saves, of which they have 21, ranking 5th, will be key in tightening up their bullpen.
Player Performances
Willson Contreras has been a standout performer for the Cardinals, with a batting average of .255, 20 home runs, and 79 RBIs. Alec Burleson has also contributed significantly, batting .281 with 17 homers. Their offensive efforts have been crucial in keeping the team’s postseason hopes alive.
Brendan Donovan has been consistent with a .279 average and 10 home runs. The team will look to these players to deliver in the upcoming game. However, injuries to key players like Nolan Arenado and Masyn Winn may impact their lineup depth.
Key Matchup: Cardinals vs. Reds
The Cardinals will look to take advantage of their home games against the Reds. With three consecutive games at Busch Stadium, it’s a crucial series for them to make a push in their division. The matchup will feature starting pitcher Matthew Liberatore, who will be key in controlling the Reds’ offense.
Liberatore has an ERA of 4.35 and a WHIP of 1.33, with a win-loss record of 7-12. His performance could be decisive in setting the tone for the series. The Cardinals need him to deliver a quality start to give their lineup a chance to capitalize.
Betting Trends
- SU in Home Games: 41-34 (54.7%)
- Runline as Underdog: 50-35 (58.8%)
- O/U After a Loss: 40-37 (51.9%)
The Cardinals have a better record at home, which could play in their favor during this series. Their runline performance as an underdog is also noteworthy, showing resilience in tighter contests. Additionally, they have shown a tendency to bounce back after a loss, which could bode well in this critical matchup.
Reds Look to Rebound in Upcoming Game Against Cardinals
Cardinals’ Recent Performance
The St. Louis Cardinals enter this game with the goal of improving their standing. Their recent performances have been mixed, but they remain a team capable of strong showings.
They aim to leverage their strengths against the Reds, who have been inconsistent in recent games. The Cardinals’ ability to capitalize on opportunities will be key.
Matthew Liberatore: Cardinals’ Starting Pitcher
Matthew Liberatore takes the mound for the Cardinals with a season record of 7-12 and an ERA of 4.35. His WHIP of 1.33 indicates some challenges with control, but he has the potential to limit damage effectively.
Facing the Reds, Liberatore will need to focus on managing home run threats, particularly after the Reds’ recent power displays. His performance will be crucial for the Cardinals’ success.
Key Players to Watch
The Cardinals will look to their offensive leaders to set the pace. They have several players capable of changing the game’s momentum with one swing.
Timely hitting and base running will be essential components for the Cardinals, especially against a Reds team looking to regain form.
Cardinals’ Pitching Strategy
Beyond Liberatore, the Cardinals’ bullpen will play a significant role in maintaining any lead. Effective relief pitching can be a game-changer.
Consistency in late innings is crucial for the Cardinals, as they look to stifle any Reds’ comeback attempts.
Offensive Expectations for the Cardinals
Offensively, the Cardinals need to exploit any weaknesses in the Reds’ pitching staff. Their ability to string together hits and drive in runs will be pivotal.
Patience at the plate could help the Cardinals capitalize on any Reds’ pitching errors, potentially swinging the game in their favor.
Betting Trends for the Cardinals
- SU in Last 5 Games: 3-2
- Runline in Last 5 Games: 3-2
- O/U in Last 5 Games: 2-3
The Cardinals’ recent betting trends indicate a team with potential to secure victories and cover the spread. Their performance against the Reds will be closely monitored by bettors.
Cardinals vs Reds Prediction: ‘Over 8.5’
The Cincinnati Reds have been struggling recently, with a three-game losing streak and allowing a significant number of home runs in their previous series against the Athletics. Their recent performance suggests a vulnerability in pitching that could lead to a higher-scoring game against the Cardinals. The Reds’ starter, Zack Littell, has a decent ERA of 3.78, but their recent form in allowing runs presents concerns.
On the other side, the St. Louis Cardinals are coming off a win and have shown some offensive firepower, as seen in their head-to-head matchups this season. The Cardinals have outscored the Reds overall and have a reasonable offensive lineup that can capitalize on the Reds’ pitching struggles. With Matthew Liberatore (ERA: 4.35) on the mound, there’s potential for runs from both teams.
Weather conditions at Busch Stadium, described as ‘overcast clouds’ with a breeze, could favor hitters, especially with the wind blowing out. This combination of recent team performances, pitching matchups, and favorable weather conditions leans towards a higher total score. The head-to-head record this season also shows a trend towards the over, making this a favorable pick.
Considering the context of this game, the expectation is for both teams to surpass the 8.5 total, leading to a projected final score reflecting a high-scoring affair. Predicted score: Cardinals 6 – Reds 5.
- Cardinals vs Reds Prediction: ‘Over 8.5’
- Cardinals vs Reds Score: ‘Cardinals 6 – Reds 5’
