New York Mets Vs Cincinnati Reds Game Preview 9/5/25

The New York Mets (75-65) and Cincinnati Reds (70-70) clash tonight at Great American Ball Park in a series opener with significant Wild Card implications. The Mets enter this matchup holding a five-game lead over the Reds for the final NL Wild Card spot, making this a must-win series for Cincinnati to keep their postseason hopes alive. For the Mets, a strong performance could effectively end the Reds’ playoff aspirations and solidify their own position in the race .

New York arrives in Cincinnati after taking two of three games from the AL Central-leading Detroit Tigers, showcasing offensive firepower with 10 and 12-run performances earlier in the series. However, the Mets’ pitching staff has struggled recently, allowing 5+ runs in 7 of their last 9 games. Key hitters like Pete Alonso (.271 avg, 33 HR, 113 RBI) and Juan Soto (37 HR, 91 RBI) will look to maintain their momentum in a hitter-friendly ballpark .

The Reds, meanwhile, are in a precarious position after losing 7 of their last 9 games. Their offense has been productive despite the losses, scoring 5+ runs in 5 of their last 6 games, but pitching has been their downfall. The staff allowed 25 runs in their last 2 games alone, highlighting the urgency for improvement. Elly De La Cruz (19 HR, 78 RBI, 32 steals) and Noelvi Marte (.292 avg, .844 OPS) anchor a lineup capable of explosive moments .

The pitching matchup features left-handers David Peterson (8-5, 3.61 ERA) for the Mets and Andrew Abbott (8-5, 2.65 ERA) for the Reds. Peterson is coming off a disastrous outing against Miami where he allowed 8 earned runs in 2 innings, but he previously held the Reds to 0 ER over 6 innings in July. Abbott, an NL All-Star, has been stellar at home (2.11 ERA) but is battling a recent slump with losses in 4 of his last 5 starts .

With both teams fighting for their playoff lives, this game promises high stakes and explosive moments. The Mets aim to leverage their offensive resurgence and extend their Wild Card lead, while the Reds seek to capitalize on home-field advantage and revive their fading hopes. First pitch is at 6:40 PM ET on MetsXMFanZone.org