In the midst of their respective struggles to stay in playoff contention, the Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Angels are set to clash in a day-night doubleheader in Anaheim, California.
This twin bill was necessitated by the heavy rains caused by Tropical Storm Hilary that flooded various areas of Orange County, leading to the postponement of Monday’s Reds-Angels game, which has been rescheduled for Wednesday night.
The opening game will feature the Los Angeles Angels sending their superstar Shohei Ohtani (10-5, 3.17 ERA) to the mound. Ohtani has showcased remarkable dominance, not allowing an earned run in his last 19 1/3 innings. His latest start against the San Francisco Giants saw him concede just one unearned run over six innings on August 9. However, due to arm fatigue, he missed his subsequent rotation turn.
The Cincinnati Reds will counter with their standout rookie Andrew Abbott (8-3, 2.99 ERA), their most consistent pitcher this season. Abbott recently allowed six hits and two runs over five innings in his latest start, securing a 7-2 victory over the Cleveland Guardians on August 16.
In the second game, the Angels will hand the ball to left-hander Reid Detmers (3-9, 4.93 ERA), who had a standout outing on August 16 against the Texas Rangers. Detmers carried a no-hitter through 7 1/3 innings before Marcus Semien doubled. He secured the win after a season-high 7 1/3 innings, giving up just one hit and four walks while recording five strikeouts.
Ohtani and Detmers will be making their first career starts against the Cincinnati Reds, while Abbott has never faced the Angels.
The Angels are pinning their hopes for a playoff push on Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani. Trout recently returned to the lineup after missing 38 games due to a fractured hamate bone in his left hand. Despite the Angels’ struggles in August, Trout’s presence offers a potential boost for the team’s push.
The Reds, much like the Angels, have faced difficulties this month, winning just five of their 17 games before their recent comeback victory. This game marks the start of the Reds’ crucial 10-game road trip against strong opponents, including the Angels, Phoenix, and San Francisco. The Reds are determined to secure wins during this road trip as they fight for wild-card spots.
As both teams seek to turn their fortunes around and solidify their chances of making the playoffs, the doubleheader promises intense action and exciting matchups on the diamond.
