The Cincinnati Reds wrap up a late-September road date when they visit the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at Truist Park. First pitch is set for 7:15 PM ET, with left-hander Andrew Abbott getting the start for Cincinnati against veteran Chris Sale. The game is available on Reds.TV and BravesVision on television, with radio coverage on 680 AM/93.7 FM The Fan and WLW 700 for Reds fans tuning in from home.
Pitching Matchup: Andrew Abbott vs. Chris Sale
Andrew Abbott draws the assignment for the Reds in what shapes up as a legitimate test on the road. Abbott has been one of the more intriguing arms in Cincinnati's rotation since breaking into the big leagues, and a late-season start in Atlanta is exactly the kind of stage that reveals what a young pitcher is made of. He will need to be sharp from the first pitch — the Braves lineup does not hand out free outs.
On the other side, Chris Sale is one of the more experienced starters in the National League. The left-hander has a long track record of producing quality outings, and Atlanta will lean on him to keep the Reds offense in check. Abbott versus Sale is a pitching matchup worth watching closely, even deep into September.
Keys to Watch for the Reds
- Abbott's command early: Road starts against quality lineups demand strike-throwing from the jump. If Abbott can work ahead in counts and limit walks, Cincinnati has a chance to keep this game close into the middle innings.
- Reds contact against Sale: Sale is at his best when he can establish his fastball and mix his breaking ball effectively. Cincinnati hitters will need to stay disciplined and make him work deep into counts rather than expanding the zone early.
- Bullpen readiness: With the regular season winding down in late September, roster depth is available. How the Reds manage their bullpen behind Abbott — and whether they can bridge to late-inning options — will be a factor if the game is close.
- Road environment: Truist Park in Atlanta is a loud, engaged ballpark. The Reds will need to stay composed and execute rather than let a tough road atmosphere affect their approach.
Cincinnati Reds at Atlanta Braves Game Preview
This is a late regular-season contest with no postseason context verified, but games in September always carry weight. Both clubs are playing out meaningful regular-season innings, and neither starter is the type to give away an outing. Abbott versus Sale at Truist Park on a Wednesday night is a matchup that rewards fans who tune in.
Prediction
This figures to be a low-scoring game given the arms on the mound. Abbott will need to match Sale pitch for pitch, and the Reds will have to manufacture runs rather than wait for a big inning. Give the edge to Atlanta at home, but Abbott has the capability to keep Cincinnati in this one late. Expect a close game decided in the final three innings. Reds 3, Braves 4.
