The Reds ended Milwaukee’s 14-game win streak with a 10th-inning walk-off, Austin Hays driving a left-field-line hit to score TJ Friedl. Cincinnati rode late-inning magic: Trevino’s sacrifice fly in the seventh and a ninth-inning RBI single to force extras, then Hays’ knock sealed it. Andrew Abbott worked seven strong innings, while Emilio Pagán yielded the decisive homer in the ninth. Contreras answered in the top of the ninth with a two-run shot for Milwaukee before Trevino’s 9th-inning swing kept Cincinnati alive. Milwaukee heads to Chicago for a five-game trip, including a doubleheader, looking to rebound.

The Cincinnati Reds are poised for an exciting second half as they attempt to secure a playoff spot for the first time since 2013. With a record of 50-47, they sit 2.5 games out of the wild-card position. All-Star pitchers Andrew Abbott and Elly De La Cruz return to a refreshed roster that aims to make significant strides in the coming weeks.

Among key factors to watch are potential moves at the trade deadline, particularly for players like Hunter Greene and Chase Burns, whose health and performance could significantly impact the team’s rotation and overall success. Additionally, prospects like Sal Stewart could provide crucial offensive boosts if they continue their strong development in Triple-A.

Week 3 of the 2025 MLB season offers numerous promising starting pitchers available on the waiver wire, ideal for both shallow and deeper leagues. Key players to consider include Jordan Hicks from the San Francisco Giants, who has improved his performance significantly with a robust groundball rate. Martin Perez of the Chicago White Sox continues to show excellent control, while young talents like Mitchell Parker from the Washington Nationals have demonstrated strikeout potential. Max Meyer from the Miami Marlins is also making waves with an impressive ERA.

In deeper leagues, Matthew Boyd of the Chicago Cubs and Hayden Wesneski of the Houston Astros are noteworthy for their recent performances. Meanwhile, Zebby Matthews of the Minnesota Twins is a sleeper pick, rumored to potentially join the roster soon. Tyler Mahle of the Texas Rangers is having a remarkable comeback season, making him a valuable addition as well. Lastly, Andrew Abbott from the Cincinnati Reds provides a solid option after recovering from injury. Consider these pitchers to strengthen your fantasy lineup as the season progresses.

Roansy Contreras, once a top prospect for the Pittsburgh Pirates, has signed with the Cincinnati Reds after being designated for assignment by the Texas Rangers. The 25-year-old pitcher debuted in the majors in 2021, recording a 9-12 record and a 4.83 ERA over four seasons with Pittsburgh.

Contreras joins a Reds rotation that includes Brady Singer and Nick Martinez, providing depth as they aim to improve in 2025. Meanwhile, the Pirates are also looking forward to a promising season with their young talents.

Elly De La Cruz, the Cincinnati Reds infielder, gained attention on social media after donning his National League All-Star jersey during a game in the Dominican Republic. This unique display highlights his rising star status in Major League Baseball.

Coming off a strong 2024 season, De La Cruz led the league with 67 stolen bases and hit 25 home runs, contributing to the Reds' competitive position in the National League Central. With the addition of manager Terry Francona and a solid young core, the Reds are looking to build on their success.