The Cincinnati Reds travel to Los Angeles to face the Dodgers on Tuesday, September 8, with first pitch scheduled for 10:10 PM ET at UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium. Nick Lodolo gets the ball for Cincinnati against Tarik Skubal in a late-night West Coast matchup that pits two quality starting pitchers against each other deep into the regular season. With September baseball in full swing and roster spots expanded, every game carries playoff implication weight — and this one is no exception for a Reds club looking to make a statement on the road.
Starting Pitchers: Lodolo vs. Skubal
Nick Lodolo has been one of the more intriguing arms in the Reds rotation. The left-hander's combination of premium velocity and a sharp breaking ball gives him a legitimate shot to compete on any given night, even in a tough environment like Dodger Stadium. The key for Lodolo will be limiting damage early and keeping Cincinnati's offense in striking distance through the middle innings.
On the other side, Tarik Skubal is a formidable challenge. The left-hander commands multiple pitch types and has the kind of stuff that can make even disciplined lineups look uncomfortable. Reds hitters will need to grind at-bats, work the count, and avoid the chase game that Skubal can exploit against undisciplined lineups.
Keys to Watch for the Reds
- Lodolo's command early: Getting through the Dodgers' lineup the first time without major damage will be critical. If Lodolo is locating his fastball, he can set up his breaking ball effectively.
- Plate discipline against Skubal: Cincinnati's offense needs to make Skubal work. Pitchers of his caliber become significantly more hittable the deeper into counts hitters can push them.
- Bullpen management: With a 10:10 PM ET start and a cross-country trip in play, how the Reds manage their bullpen arms behind Lodolo could determine the outcome in the late innings.
- Road environment: UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium is one of the louder, more energized venues in the National League during September. The Reds will need to stay composed in a hostile atmosphere.
Broadcast Information
Reds fans can catch the game on Reds.TV on the television side, or tune into WLW 700 on the radio dial. Dodgers coverage is available on SportsNet LA and AM570.
Prediction
This is a tough draw. Skubal at home is a difficult assignment for any offense, and a late West Coast start adds another layer of challenge for a traveling Reds club. That said, Lodolo is capable of matching zeroes with just about anyone on a good night. If Cincinnati's lineup can manufacture a run or two early and Lodolo keeps the Dodgers' big boppers in check, the Reds have a puncher's chance. Expect a low-scoring game. Reds 3, Dodgers 4 — a tight loss that still shows this team can compete with the best.
