Reds vs Twins Preview: Pitching Showdown on Saturday

The Cincinnati Reds roll into Minnesota on Saturday ready to bounce back after a tough loss to the Giants. Cincinnati sits at 12-8, but their pitching staff faces serious challenges early in the season. Hunter Greene, the team's ace, is sidelined until midseason following elbow surgery. That means Andrew Abbott takes the mound against the Twins, shouldering extra responsibility while the rotation finds its footing. The Reds' young offense remains their strength, and they'll need those bats firing to stay competitive. Meanwhile, Minnesota comes in at 11-9 with momentum on their side after winning seven of their last ten games.

Both teams bring electrifying talent to Target Field. The Reds feature Elly De La Cruz at shortstop, one of baseball's most dynamic players who combines speed, power, and athleticism. De La Cruz led all of baseball with 67 stolen bases in a previous season and continues threatening pitchers both at bat and on bases. Eugenio Suárez, a veteran power hitter returning to Cincinnati, brings home run power from the middle of the lineup. For Minnesota, Byron Buxton represents franchise excellence after his incredible 2024 season with 35 home runs and 24 stolen bases. However, injuries affect both teams' depth charts significantly heading into this matchup.

Minnesota sends Taj Bradley to the mound against Abbott in this pitching duel. The Twins rely on steady depth rather than dominant aces, with Joe Ryan anchoring a dependable rotation. However, injuries impact both rosters. Nick Lodolo sits out for Cincinnati with an abrasion, while Minnesota misses Royce Lewis at third base. Jose Trevino remains unavailable for the Reds as well. Despite these absences, both teams enter Saturday hunting consistency. The Reds need their pitching to stabilize early while their offense stays potent. Minnesota seeks to extend their recent success from winning seven of their final ten games. Expect a competitive battle where experience and health will matter most.