The Tampa Bay Rays are set to face the Cincinnati Reds in the opening game of a three-game series on Monday, April 17, 2023. This matchup will take place in St. Petersburg, Florida, starting at 6:40 p.m. EDT. Both teams come into this series with promising records, making it an exciting encounter.
Team Records and Standings
- Cincinnati Reds: 14 wins, 8 losses (1st in NL Central)
- Tampa Bay Rays: 12 wins, 9 losses (2nd in AL East)
Game Details
For this matchup, the Reds will have Rhett Lowder on the mound, who has yet to record a decision this season. The Rays have not yet announced their starting pitcher.
Betting Odds
- Rays: -116
- Reds: -103
- Over/Under: 8 runs
Recent Performance
The Tampa Bay Rays have performed well at home with a 4-2 record in St. Petersburg. Their collective batting average stands at .259, the highest in the American League. They have scored four more runs than their opponents over the last ten games, compiling a 7-3 record.
In contrast, the Cincinnati Reds boast a strong 8-2 record in away games. Their overall performance includes six victories in one-run games, highlighting their competitiveness. However, they have been outscored by six runs in their last ten games, finishing with a 6-4 record and a batting average of .193.
Key Players to Watch
- Junior Caminero (Rays): 5 home runs, .464 slugging percentage
- Cedric Mullins (Rays): .194 batting average, 2 home runs, 5 RBIs in the last 10 games
- Sal Stewart (Reds): .278 batting average, 4 doubles, 7 home runs
- Elly De La Cruz (Reds): 12 hits in 41 at-bats, 3 home runs, 6 RBIs in the last 10 games
Injury Reports
- Rays Injuries:
- Joe Boyle: 15-Day IL (elbow)
- Gavin Lux: 10-Day IL (shoulder)
- Garrett Cleavinger: 15-Day IL (calf)
- Michael Grove: 15-Day IL (shoulder)
- Ryan Pepiot: 60-Day IL (hip)
- Steven Wilson: 60-Day IL (back)
- Edwin Uceta: 15-Day IL (shoulder)
- Manuel Rodriguez: 60-Day IL (elbow)
- Reds Injuries:
- Caleb Ferguson: 15-Day IL (oblique)
- Jose Trevino: 10-Day IL (back)
- Nick Lodolo: 15-Day IL (finger)
- Hunter Greene: 60-Day IL (elbow)
As the Rays host the Reds, fans can look forward to a competitive series marked by strong team dynamics and individual performances. The first meeting of the season between these teams promises to be a highlight in their respective schedules.
