Cincinnati (Miley) vs. Miami (Thompson)

Cincinnati, in the thick of the hunt for a wild card spot, must win against teams like Miami. The Reds swept Miami in their recent home series, and look to Wade Miley (10-4, 2.88) to continue this run. Miley is up to the challenge. He had a rough outing 3 starts ago but otherwise has been formidable. He pitches for length, ERA, and wins and has been very effective against left-handed batters.

Zach Thompson (2-5, 3.12) has pitched for average, but the Marlins have hardly been supportive. The team has a record of 3-9 when he is on the mound. He is 0-3, with an ERA of 3.48 in his last seven games.

If the Reds team is the muscle guy of the MLB, then Miami is the 90 LB. Weakling. I could string a series of ugly stats out, but the most telling are 7-11 home underdog and 13-25 against a left-handed starter. Both bull pens have been substandard in their last 7 games.

Miley is the better pitcher and the Reds are a much better team. Miami is nothing special at home. Look for Cincinnati to do a little sand-kicking. Take the REDS TO WIN,