The Cincinnati Reds and Milwaukee Brewers renew their National League Central rivalry on Monday, June 29, as they begin a four-game series at American Family Field. The Brewers enter the matchup with one of the best records in baseball, while the Reds are trying to climb back into the Wild Card race. With left-handers Nick Lodolo and Robert Gasser taking the mound, bettors have several intriguing wagering opportunities.
Milwaukee has controlled much of the season series and returns home looking to strengthen its lead atop the NL Central. Here’s a breakdown of the best MLB gambling bets for Reds vs. Brewers.
Reds vs. Brewers Starting Pitchers
The Reds are expected to start Nick Lodolo (2-2, 5.59 ERA). The talented left-hander has flashed swing-and-miss stuff throughout the season, but inconsistency has prevented him from becoming Cincinnati’s ace. Lodolo has struggled with command at times and has been vulnerable to the long ball, leading to an ERA well above his career average. Despite those issues, his strikeout ability always gives him the potential to dominate on any given night.
Milwaukee counters with Robert Gasser (1-3, 4.50 ERA). While Gasser’s record isn’t impressive, he has pitched better than it suggests since returning to the Brewers’ rotation. The left-hander has displayed solid command and has benefited from Milwaukee’s outstanding defense and bullpen, giving the Brewers an opportunity to win whenever he takes the mound.
Best Bet: Brewers Moneyline
Milwaukee enters the opener with momentum despite dropping a tough extra-inning game to the Cubs on Sunday. The Brewers continue to lead the National League Central thanks to elite pitching and one of baseball’s deepest bullpens. Their balanced offense also gives them an advantage against a Reds team that has struggled to score consistently away from home.
Lodolo has the talent to keep Cincinnati in the game, but Milwaukee’s ability to manufacture runs and consistently play clean baseball makes the Brewers the stronger moneyline play.
Best Bet: Brewers Moneyline
Best Total Bet: Under 8 Runs
Although both lineups feature power hitters, this projects as a relatively low-scoring contest. Gasser has shown the ability to limit hard contact, while Lodolo’s strikeout upside can neutralize Milwaukee’s lineup if he commands the strike zone.
The Brewers also possess one of the National League’s top bullpens, making the under an attractive option if Gasser can pitch into the sixth inning.
Pick: Under 8 Runs
Best Player Prop
Nick Lodolo Over Strikeouts
Even if Cincinnati falls short, Lodolo’s strikeout prop stands out as one of the best betting opportunities. Milwaukee ranks among the league leaders in offensive production, but the Brewers are also willing to swing aggressively. Lodolo’s fastball-slider combination gives him a strong chance to record six or more strikeouts before exiting the game.
Final Prediction
Milwaukee enters the series as the more complete team. The Brewers have consistently found ways to win close games behind excellent pitching, timely hitting, and a reliable bullpen. While Lodolo is capable of delivering a quality start, Milwaukee’s overall depth gives the home team the edge.
Best Bets
- Brewers Moneyline
- Under 8 Runs
- Nick Lodolo Over Strikeouts
Prediction: Brewers 4, Reds 3.
