Elly De La Cruz BLAST, Hunter Greene 12Ks BLANK Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds Podcast, Highlights

00:00 Craig and Mike live in the 9th inning
12:07 FULL GAME RECAP

The Chicago Cubs (52-41) and the Cincinnati Reds (42-50) kick off a pivotal three-game series on Friday, July 10, 2026, at the Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati. First pitch for the series opener is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. EDT.

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The visiting Cubs are heading into the matchup with significant momentum, as they “took two of three from the Orioles in Baltimore and came very close to getting a sweep,” according to Cubs Insider. Chicago is looking to capitalize on their recent success as they aim to firmly secure a strong postseason spot before the All-Star break. Outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong has been a standout force for the Cubs, leading the team with a strong batting average of “ .296, and has 15 doubles, four triples, 21 home runs, 43 walks and 52 RBI,” as highlighted by ESPN.

In contrast, the Cincinnati Reds find themselves in a tough stretch. As noted by Bleacher Nation, “after losing 7 of their last 10, the Cincinnati Reds have fallen eight games under .500 and to last place in the Central.” Despite their recent struggles, the offense still packs a punch. Sal Stewart leads the squad with “19 home runs while slugging .476,” as reported by Yahoo Sports. Cincinnati also has an 18-11 record in games where they hit two or more home runs, proving they can flip a game's momentum with one swing.

Friday’s pitching matchup features left-hander Shota Imanaga (5-7, 4.28 ERA) taking the mound for the Cubs. Imanaga “shut down the Reds for one run and six hits over six innings on May 7, earning the win” during Chicago's 8-3 victory, according to Reuters. Opposing him will be Reds right-hander Hunter Greene (0-1, 21.60 ERA), who is making only his second start since returning from right elbow surgery. In his first start back against the Orioles, Greene “was tagged for eight runs and seven hits over just 3 1/3 innings,” as detailed by Reuters. Greene will be aiming to harness his velocity and command better in this start.

Oddsmakers currently have the game priced closely, with Sportsbook Wire showing the Cubs as a slight moneyline favorite and the total set to 9.5 runs. Weather might also play a factor, as there are scattered thunderstorm warnings in the Cincinnati area right around game time, which could cause early in-game delays and force managers to rely heavily on their bullpen arms.