In the second matchup of their three-game series, will the Cincinnati Reds be dominant at home against the visiting St. Louis Cardinals? This offers a great betting opportunity between these two divisional rivals.

The Cardinals are 26^th in the league rankings and are at risk of remaining in last place since the 90’s. They recently defeated the Atlanta Braves, the best team in baseball, two times prior to this series. Zack Thompson (4-5) gets the start on the mound, with a good ERA of 3.91.

They are doing well at the plate, with a batting average of .254. However, they give up .276. In recent games, they have done much better but will need to remain vigilant on defense.

They are actually a toss up in comparison to the Reds when it comes to a few key stats. The Cardinals are basically the same in their ERA (4.75), but are better with their OBP (.329) and slugging percentage (.429). These stats will be pivotal in their success.

The Cardinals are about 17 games behind the leading Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central. They need more wins so they do not have a terrible season in last place.

The Reds dropped back a spot in the rankings, which they currently sit at 16^th. They have an easier schedule for the rest of the month, which should bode well for their chances at catching the Brewers. Carson Spiers (0-0) is seeking his first win on the mound with an ERA of 6.75.

Their batting average is similar to the Cardinals, as they put up .248 and allow .257. They have consistently done better on the mound, but this matchup appears at a disadvantage.

Their ERA (4.74), OBP (.325), and slugging percentage (.413) are all competitive with the Cardinals. They will need strong pitching in order to remain in reach.

The Reds are nearly six games from the Brewers in the NL Central. They need to capitalize at home to give them a shot at the playoffs.

MyBookie has recently released the most up-to-date odds for this showdown, and they seem to marginally favor the St. Louis Cardinals. Yet, after conducting a comprehensive market analysis, it becomes evident that the Reds stand a 51.8 percent chance of clinching a win in the upcoming second game.

Both teams have done well at the plate and each game has just about been a coin flip for an ending. Look for the Cardinals to have slightly better pitching to make the difference.