The Cincinnati Reds face the St. Louis Cardinals in a split doubleheader today, April 30, 2025, at Great American Ball Park, rescheduled due to yesterday’s rainout. Game 1 starts at 12:40 p.m. ET, with Game 2 at 6:40 p.m. ET. The Reds, riding a five-game winning streak, aim to capitalize on their momentum against a struggling Cardinals squad (12-17), who are desperate to avoid one of their worst 30-game starts in the Wild Card era. Game 1 Preview: Brady Singer (4-0, 3.62 ERA) takes the mound for the Reds against Miles Mikolas (0-2, 5.70 ERA). Singer, acquired in the offseason, has been a reliable arm, though Great American’s hitter-friendly confines could test him. Mikolas, coming off a strong shutout against Atlanta, will look to keep the ball out of the middle of the plate. The Reds’ lineup, led by Elly De La Cruz’s superstar spark, should see Matt McLain’s return after hamstring soreness. However, injuries to Austin Hays, Jeimer Candelario, and Tyler Stephenson may force reliance on call-ups like Chase Petty and Tyler Callihan. The Cardinals’ offense, inconsistent this season, needs production from Paul Goldschmidt to counter Cincinnati’s speed and power. Game 2 Preview: The Reds have not announced their starter, with Nick Martinez (0-2, 5.91 ERA) or a bullpen game as possibilities. St. Louis counters with Steven Matz (2-0, 1.80 ERA), whose early-season form makes him a tough matchup. The Reds’ offense, bolstered by Noel Marte’s recent two-run homer, must stay disciplined against Matz’s command. De La Cruz, a dynamic force, and a hopefully healthy McLain will be key. The Cardinals, meanwhile, lean on their pitching to cool Cincinnati’s hot streak, but their shaky bullpen could be a liability late. Key Factors: The Reds’ aggressive baserunning, led by De La Cruz, could exploit St. Louis’ defensive lapses. Cincinnati’s bullpen, with Emilio Pagán’s experience, needs to hold leads. For the Cardinals, generating early offense and avoiding high-leverage relief situations are critical. Weather should cooperate, with clear skies forecast. With Terry Francona’s strategic edge and Cincinnati’s young talent clicking, the Reds are favored to split or sweep, but St. Louis’s desperation could make this a tight battle.