#cincinnati-reds

#cincinnati-reds

This didn't need to happen. I wish it didn't happen. Players shouldn't have to worry about hidden hazards like that on a major league field.

"Shoot, man, that's a play that the only player in baseball that makes that play is Elly," manager Terry Francona said. "And he damn near did there, too."

"Either you're going on contact or you're not," Fanduel Sports Network analyst and National Baseball Hall of Famer Barry Larkin said. "Didn't really look like he was going on contact..."

With the Braves opting for minimal changes, just shuffling positions within a familiar lineup, they aim to find a groove in this important series.

Starting pitchers like Mitchell Parker are now expected to average 86.5 pitches, with many teams reluctant to let them face the batting order for a third time.

With Tyler Stephenson reinstated from the injured list, the Reds welcome back a strong catcher, while Austin Hays moves to the IL with a hamstring strain.