Reds vs Nationals Elite MLB Pick 7/19

The Cincinnati Reds have experienced a season of highs and lows. But they remain in the hunt for a playoff spot. As the second half of the season kicks off, the Reds will visit the Washington Nationals on Friday for the first of a three-game series. Reds vs Nationals Elite MLB Pick 7/19

5* Elite MLB Pick Preview

Currently, the Reds hold a 47-50 record, placing them fourth in the National League Central. Just half a game ahead of the Chicago Cubs. Despite their position, they are only three games behind the New York Mets for the final NL wild-card spot. Though they must surpass three other teams to secure it. Cincinnati is also eight games behind the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers.

One critical area for improvement is their performance in one-run games. Where they are 8-18, the second-fewest wins in the league, ahead of only the Houston Astros. In extra-inning games, they have a 1-3 record this season. Cincinnati shortstop Elly De La Cruz, fresh off his All-Star Game debut, enters the second half with a six-game hitting streak. Boasting a .375 average (9-for-24) during that span.

The Washington Nationals have struggled in recent weeks, falling six games behind the last wild-card berth. After a strong start to the season, their rotation now holds a 5.80 ERA since June 23, the third-worst in the majors, contributing to their 6-14 record during that stretch.

A bright spot for the Nationals has been first baseman Juan Yepez, who was called up from Triple-A Rochester and made his season debut on July 5. The 26-year-old has hit safely in each of his 10 games, posting a .378 average (14-for-37) with a .541 slugging percentage and three consecutive multi-hit games.

Starting Pitchers Tonight

Right-hander Frankie Montas (4-7, 4.38 ERA) will take the mound for the Reds on Friday. In three career appearances (one start) against Washington, Montas has a 1-0 record with a 6.14 ERA, allowing five runs on 10 hits over 7 1/3 innings.

Left-hander Patrick Corbin (1-9, 5.57 ERA) is slated to start for the Nationals on Friday. Corbin has a 5-5 record with a 4.50 ERA in 16 career outings (15 starts) against the Reds.

Reds vs Nationals Elite MLB Pick 7/19

Here at Elite Sports Beat I finished 4-0-1 +$2,000 last week in MLB picks. And so far this season 36-19-6 (65%) +$7,870 overall. Proof can be found here.

To receive my 5* Elite MLB Pick be sure to sign up below to receive more information!