Orioles vs. Reds Series Preview: Pitching Matchups, Roster Moves, and Wild Card Implications

Series Context

The Orioles arrive in Cincinnati needing a strong showing. After a frustrating series against the Nationals and a day off Thursday, Brandon Young's 3.11 ERA has been a stabilizing force, but the rotation remains inconsistent. Trevor Rogers (4.99 ERA) was brilliant in June with a 2.05 ERA over five starts, striking out 22 and walking just six. The Orioles are hoping that version of Rogers shows up against a Reds lineup that struggles overall (.228 team average) but hits lefties much better (.758 OPS).

The Reds counter with Brady Singer (5.12 ERA), who has been far better at home (3.25 ERA) than on the road (6.75 ERA) but has already allowed 19 home runs this season after giving up 19 in all of 2025. He's also coming off a clunker against the Pirates.

Closer Situation Now a Crisis

Helsley's setback is a major concern. The Orioles signed him to a two-year, $28 million contract after Bautista's surgery. Helsley initially injured his elbow on April 29 and missed seven weeks. Upon returning, he surrendered two home runs on his first two pitches in Seattle and allowed three earned runs in Los Angeles. The two subsequent outings were clean before he took a loss Saturday against the Nationals.

Manager Craig Albernaz wanted to use Helsley on Wednesday with an off-day Thursday, but the plan fell apart when the elbow discomfort returned.

Saturday & Sunday Matchups

Saturday brings Brandon Young (3.11 ERA) against Hunter Greene making his season debut after spring training surgery for bone chips in his elbow. Greene dominated Triple-A hitters in rehab outings, throwing 82 pitches in his final start.

Sunday features Kyle Bradish (3.77 ERA) against lefty Nick Lodolo (5.05 ERA). Bradish has been inconsistent — three of his five June starts lasted just four innings with 14 total runs allowed, while the other two saw him allow just one run over 15.2 combined innings. The Orioles are 10-15 against left-handed starters, though that mark has improved from early-season struggles.

Reds' Struggles

The Reds have lost seven of their last 10 games and hold the majors' worst record since May 1 (20-35). They've hit 64 home runs in that span but allowed 87 — the negative-23 differential is second-worst in MLB. Their 4.59 ERA ranks 23rd, while the Orioles sit 22nd at 4.39.

Manager Terry Francona has 138 wins against the Orioles with four teams, second all-time behind Al Lopez (148).

Who will close games for the Orioles with Ryan Helsley on the IL?

Manager Craig Albernaz will likely turn to a committee approach. Anthony Nunez, who was recalled from Norfolk, could see high-leverage innings, and the Orioles may also look to Brandon Young or Yennier Cano if the team needs a save. Félix Bautista is throwing bullpen sessions in Sarasota but isn't expected back until the second half.

How did the Orioles get to 40-46?

Inconsistency has plagued the team. They are 28-2 when scoring six or more runs (fourth-best in MLB), but they struggle to generate offense regularly. Since June 19, they have a .306 average with runners in scoring position (sixth in MLB), which shows signs of life. However, a 4.39 team ERA (22nd) and bullpen instability have held them back.

What is the Orioles' path to the playoffs?

They are five games back of the final Wild Card spot. With the All-Star break approaching, the Orioles need to string together winning series. The rotation has shown flashes — Brandon Young (10-3 in his starts), a resurgent Trevor Rogers, and a Dean Kremer return offer hope — but the bullpen must hold up without Helsley.

Why are the Reds struggling despite a strong April?

The Reds went 10-17 in May and 9-17 in June. Their offense ranks 29th in batting average (.228), and the pitching staff is bottom-10 in both starter and reliever ERA. Only Elly De La Cruz, Sal Stewart, JJ Bleday, and Nathaniel Lowe have carried the offense consistently.

For Orioles Fans:

For Reds Fans:

Key Actions:

The Orioles and Reds are in remarkably similar positions — identical 40-46 records, struggling pitching staffs, and fading playoff hopes. This series could provide a spark for one team and a setback for the other.

Do you think the Orioles can make a Wild Card push without Helsley closing? Will Hunter Greene's return change the Reds' trajectory? Let us know in the comments below!

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