The Reds arrive at Dodger Stadium with playoff intensity on full display after a 10-5 setback, but their fight remains intact. Matt McLain and Elly De La Cruz sparked Cincinnati’s bats, and Tyler Stephenson pressed the pace with a long at-bat that nearly flipped the eighth inning. Cincinnati reiterates they’re not backing down, chasing a must-win Game 2 while leaning on cockroach-like resilience and trusted bullpen depth against a star-studded Dodgers lineup.

Dodgers harness power and patience in Game 1, hammering Reds 10-5 as Shohei Ohtani launches two homers and Blake Snell flirtates with a no-hitter into the third inning. Cincinnati’s playoff return stalls early, but a late rally hints at a potential bounce-back bid from Littell against Yamamoto in Game 2. Fantasy angles: ride the Dodgers’ explosive bats and monitor Reds’ youngsters for short-term breakout chances as the series shifts.

Reds at Dodgers in NL Wild Card Game 1 pits Hunter Greene, making his first playoff start in his hometown, against Blake Snell, who most recently no-hit Cincinnati in 2024. Cincinnati’s lineup features De La Cruz, Marte, and Edman, while Los Angeles counters with Ohtani, Betts, Freeman, and a deep, versatile roster. In a one-game sprint, fantasy angles hinge on Greene’s poise, Snell’s form, and how the Dodgers’ power and depth translate to a high-leverage night.

Expect bullpen leverage to decide late runs and for each side to gamble on contact and speed at key spots. For fantasy and betting, prioritize Greene’s upside as a dynamic rookie in a playoff environment and Snell’s strikeout potential, while weighing Dodgers’ mid-order contributors for multi-hit, multi-RBI nights. The result could set the tone for the Reds’ postseason run and the Dodgers’ title chances.