Cincinnati Reds' Johnny Cueto slated to start Thursday’s game – MLB News
Cincinnati Reds have slated Johnny Cueto to start the finale of three-game series against the Chicago Cubs to be played on Thursday, September 20. The Reds have a 2-0 lead and are expected to sweep the series.
Much as sweeping the three-game series is something the club is envisioning, it will be an important game for Cueto who will try to win the 18th game of the season. With 2.92 ERA, Cueto has a 17-9 record this season so far.
Reds want to increase their lead in the Division, while the Cubs intend to play a spoiler role. Also, the Cubs are looking to avoid the 100-loss mark this time round and they have done everything to translate it into reality this season.
The recent games wherein the club has put tough resistance against the established clubs is an incontrovertible evidence of it. Wednesday’s game was a tough one for the Reds wherein they had to work hard until the 11th inning to achieve a 6-5 win.
Brandon Phillips looks forward to celebrating a possible National League Central League victory – if only everything goes as the Reds plan. With the success they have gleaned this time, that does not seem impossible.
"I am looking forward to it," Phillips said. "The only time I drink was 2010 (the last time the Reds won the NL Central), that was the first time I tasted alcohol, I'm kind of looking forward to that feeling again."
Nonetheless, all eyes will be set on Johnny Cueto who is to have his 18th win of the season. Much to his disappointment, his last two outings were not particularly good and he lost both of the starts. Thursday’s game will be a chance to reverse that pattern.
Cueto will be looking forward to the game with more eagerness and a bit of apprehension as well. He will certainly not like to lose the game again. Given the bigger challenges lying ahead, the Reds hope the rotation will stay strong and intact with all the pitchers – including Cueto, being tough and assertive to solidify the defence for the club.
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