The Cincinnati Reds wrap up a home series against the Chicago Cubs on Sunday, September 20, 2026, with first pitch set for 1:40 PM ET at Great American Ball Park. Rhett Lowder gets the ball for Cincinnati in what shapes up as a meaningful late-September regular season contest. The Cubs have not yet confirmed a starter. Catch the action locally on Reds.TV or WLW 700, or follow the Cubs side on Marquee Sports Network and 104.3 The Score.
Probable Pitchers for Reds vs. Cubs, September 20, 2026
Cincinnati is sending Rhett Lowder to the hill for Sunday's afternoon game. Lowder, a right-handed pitching prospect who has been part of the Reds' rotation development plans, gets the assignment in a late-season home start. Detailed season stats for Lowder were not available at the time of this preview, and the Cubs had not yet announced a probable starter.
Keys to Watch: Cincinnati Reds vs. Chicago Cubs
- Lowder's command: Without confirmed ERA or win-loss numbers to lean on, the focus Sunday will be on how well Lowder attacks the strike zone and limits free passes against a Cubs lineup that can make pitchers pay for mistakes.
- Reds' offense at home: Great American Ball Park has historically been a hitter-friendly environment. Cincinnati's lineup will need to take advantage of that and put pressure on whichever arm Chicago sends to the mound.
- Cubs' starter reveal: Chicago's pitching decision is worth tracking as game time approaches. The identity of their arm could significantly shape how the Reds set their lineup and approach at-bats early.
- Bullpen depth: Late September means rosters are expanded and managers have options. How both clubs deploy their relief corps in a potential close game could be the difference.
Prediction: Reds vs. Cubs on Sunday, September 20
Sunday afternoon baseball at Great American Ball Park in late September carries real weight. Lowder getting the nod tells you the Reds see value in continuing to develop their young arms even as the regular season winds down. If he can keep the Cubs' offense in check through five or six innings, Cincinnati's lineup at home is capable of doing enough damage to win this one. Without knowing Chicago's starter, this is a game that could break either way — but the Reds have the home-field edge and a motivated crowd behind them on a Sunday afternoon. Edge: Reds.
