Marlins vs. Reds Friday Prediction
Bottom feeders in their respective divisions will meet in Cincinnati this weekend when the Reds host the Miami Marlins for a three-game set. Will the Marlins take Game 1 of the series on Friday night at 7:10 p.m. ET?
Game Snapshot & Odds
903 Miami Marlins (+113) at 904 Cincinnati Reds (-124); 9 runs
Friday, May 4, 2018
7:10 p.m. ET, Great American Ball Park
TV: MIA (FSFl); CIN (FSO)
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Public Betting Trends
Oddsmakers from online sportsbooks currently list the Reds as a -124 favorite. As of this writing, 59% of the betting tickets wagered at online sportsbooks are on the Reds to beat the Marlins on the moneyline. This information is subject to change, however, so be sure to check out our MLB Public Betting Page for updated figures on this game.
Marlins’ Chen pitches well in 2018 debut
Wei-Yin Chen allowed a run on four hits over 5 1/3 innings of work in his 2018 debut Saturday, earning a win against the Rockies.
Chen was efficient in stymieing a potent Rockies lineup, as he was removed after 68 pitches only because it was his first start of the year. His season was delayed as he continued to recover from a partially torn UCL sustained last year. Chen has a favorable matchup Friday against the Reds.
Reds’ Romano allows two runs in 4 2/3 innings vs. Twins
Sal Romano took a loss to the Twins after allowing three runs — two earned — in 4 2/3 innings on Saturday. He recorded only one strikeout against two walks and six base hits — including a solo home run by catcher Mitch Garver. This start was typical of Romano’s season to date (six starts). He has a low strikeout rate, a high walk rate and gives up way too many longballs. He owns a 17:14 strikeout-to-walk ratio and has allowed six home runs in 31 innings of work. He is 1-3 with a 4.65 ERA and 1.45 WHIP.
MLB Betting Trends
Miami
The Marlins have won five of their last seven games against the Reds but are just 12-26 in their last 38 trips to Cincinnati.
Cincinnati
The Reds are 2-6 in Romano’s last eight starts but have won four of his last five outings versus the National League East.
Prediction:
I’m not laying odds with the Reds. I refuse. Both of these teams are in last place in their respective division but while the Reds have lost three in a row, the Marlins have won six of their last 10 games. They’re also 5-0 in Chen’s last five starts versus National League Central opponents and have won five of their last six games versus a right-handed starter. On the other side, the Reds have dropped six games in a row following an off day and are just 3-18 in their last 21 home games.
The Pick: Miami Marlins +112