Written by: Michael Rivera
Michael is a data-driven baseball enthusiast who specializes in pitch analytics and betting trends.
Reds vs Dodgers: Betting Preview & Props (Aug 26)
Last updated: August 26, 2025
Game Time: 8/26, 10:10PM
Game Overview
The Cincinnati Reds are set to take on the Los Angeles Dodgers in a late-night showdown at Dodger Stadium. The Dodgers are favored at -186, while the Reds stand as +151 underdogs, with a significant 85% of the betting money backing Los Angeles. This matchup presents intriguing pitching duels and lineup challenges that could sway betting outcomes.
Pitching Preview
Pitching Matchup: Nick Martinez vs Clayton Kershaw
Nick Martinez (CIN):
Nick Martinez brings a diverse pitch mix to the mound with his arsenal consisting of: Four-Seam Fastball (21% usage, 92.6 mph), Cutter (21% usage, 89.0 mph), Changeup (20% usage, 78.5 mph), Sinker (17% usage, 92.4 mph), Slider (11% usage, 84.9 mph), and Curveball (11% usage, 79.7 mph). Martinez is a pitch-mix artist, relying on a balanced blend to keep hitters off-balance rather than overpowering them with velocity. The Dodgers lineup averages .256 this season with a projected xBA of .249 against Martinez's arsenal, suggesting a slightly tougher outing for the Dodgers' bats.
Clayton Kershaw (LAD):
Clayton Kershaw, the veteran southpaw, utilizes a Slider (41% usage, 85.7 mph), Four-Seam Fastball (35% usage, 89.0 mph), Curveball (18% usage, 72.3 mph), Splitter (6% usage, 83.3 mph), and Sinker (1% usage, 89.3 mph). Kershaw's slider-heavy approach and seasoned command pose a formidable challenge for hitters. The Reds lineup, which averages .263 this season, projects to struggle with a .235 xBA against Kershaw's deceptive pitch mix.
Hitting Matchups
Lineup Matchups & Batting Edges
For the Reds vs Clayton Kershaw:
- The Reds lineup averages .263 this season but projects to .235 against Kershaw's arsenal.
- Biggest decrease: Miguel Andujar has a season BA of .310, but a projected xBA of .271 (-39 points).
- No significant increases in xBA observed.
For the Dodgers vs Nick Martinez:
- The Dodgers lineup averages .256 this season with a projected .249 xBA against Martinez's arsenal.
- Biggest increase: Shohei Ohtani shows a season BA of .279 and projects a .305 xBA (+26 points).
- Biggest decrease: Freddie Freeman drops from a season BA of .302 to a .252 xBA (-50 points).
Lineup Strikeout Trends vs Arsenal
Strikeout Risks & Rewards
- The Reds' projected K-rate is 22.1% vs Kershaw — up 4.2% from their 18.0% season average.
- The Dodgers' projected K-rate is 21.6% vs Martinez — up 0.6% from their 21.1% season average.
Umpire Influence
Behind the Plate: Umpire assignment has not been announced, which makes prop volatility a concern.
What to Bet On
📢 Prop Alert: Shohei Ohtani (.279 → .305, +26 points) meets betting lean criteria!
⚡ K Prop Alert: Clayton Kershaw strikeout OVER - Reds' K-rate jumps to 22.1% vs this arsenal!
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Shohei Ohtani presents a strong batting prop opportunity with a projected xBA significantly above his season average.
- Clayton Kershaw's matchup indicates a potential strikeout prop value as the Reds' lineup shows increased strikeout susceptibility.
- Umpire assignment is currently unknown, adding an element of unpredictability to prop betting.
- Dodgers are heavily favored, but the Reds' ability to disrupt Kershaw could prove pivotal.
🧠 FAQs
Q: Who is the best betting prop for the Reds vs Dodgers game? A: Shohei Ohtani shows a significant increase in xBA against Martinez, making him a prime prop candidate.
Q: Is the umpire a pitcher-friendly umpire? A: Umpire assignment has not been announced, increasing prop betting risks.
Q: What time is the Reds vs Dodgers game? A: The game is scheduled for 8/26, 10:10PM.
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