Date, Time & Venue
Wednesday, June 17, 2026 First pitch: 12:40 p.m. ET / 10:10 p.m. IST Venue: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, Ohio
Global Time Zone Conversions
- Eastern Time (ET): 12:40 p.m.
- Pacific Time (PT): 9:40 a.m.
- British Summer Time (BST): 5:40 p.m.
- India Standard Time (IST): 10:10 p.m.
- Australian Eastern Time (AET): 2:40 a.m. (June 18)
Injury Updates & Team News
The Mets continue to battle significant injuries. Francisco Lindor remains sidelined with a calf strain and is not expected back until late June. Christian Scott landed on the 15-day injured list with a right hip impingement. Kodai Senga returned from his own IL stint but struggled mightily in Tuesday’s start.
For the Reds, star shortstop Elly De La Cruz (hamstring) is progressing and could begin a rehab assignment soon, with a potential return around June 23. Ke’Bryan Hayes has also dealt with back issues. Both teams are operating with patched-together rotations and lineups.
Probable Pitchers & Key Matchups
Nolan McLean (RHP, Mets) vs Nick Lodolo (LHP, Reds)
| Stat (2026) | Nolan McLean (NYM) | Nick Lodolo (CIN) |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 3-4 | 2-1 |
| ERA | 4.01 | 5.21 |
| WHIP | 1.14 | 1.45 |
| Innings Pitched | 76.1 | 38.0 |
| Strikeouts | 88 | 30 |
| Walks | 31 | 15 |
| Home Runs Allowed | 8 | 8 |
Key Player Battles
- Juan Soto (Mets LF) vs Lodolo’s changeup – Soto’s plate discipline could be the difference.
- Spencer Steer (Reds) – Hot after going deep in the series.
- Mets bullpen vs late-inning Reds threats.
Series Situation & Recent Form
The Reds have dominated. They blew out the Mets 12-0 in the opener and followed with a 5-3 win on Tuesday night behind strong starting pitching and timely hitting. Cincinnati leads the series 2-0 and sits at 35-37 overall. The Mets fell to 32-41 and have dropped six of their last ten.
The Mets desperately need a strong outing from McLean and better offensive support to avoid their first sweep of the young season.
Pitch Report & Weather
Great American Ball Park plays relatively neutral but favors right-handed power hitters with its dimensions. The day game should offer good visibility.
Weather (game time): Around 77°F, mostly cloudy with light winds around 7 mph. Chance of rain is very low (under 10%). Conditions look favorable for baseball.
Head-to-Head Records
The Reds have owned this particular series so far in 2026. In the most recent meetings before this week, results were more mixed, but Cincinnati’s current form and home comfort give them a clear edge in the short sample.
Match Prediction
The Reds enter as favorites at home and have every reason to believe they can complete the sweep. McLean offers the Mets their best shot at keeping the game close, but New York’s banged-up roster and recent offensive struggles make it tough.
Predicted Final Score: Reds 5, Mets 3 Best Bet Angle: Reds moneyline or Under if the pitching settles in.
Live Streaming & Telecast
- United States: SNY (Mets broadcast), Reds regional sports network / Bally Sports Ohio, MLB.TV
- International: MLB.TV (subject to blackout rules)
- Check local listings for additional streaming options in your region.
Fantasy Team Tips (DraftKings / FanDuel)
Target Juan Soto for consistent at-bats and on-base skills. Spencer Steer and other hot Reds bats have looked dangerous all series. On the mound, McLean offers strikeout upside but carries risk — consider him in GPP tournaments only. Lodolo is a riskier play given his ERA.
Grand League vs Small League: In cash games, lean toward proven studs like Soto. In tournaments, look for value on under-the-radar Reds hitters or Mets power bats if the ball is flying.
Records & Milestones
Both teams are in the thick of a crowded NL wild card and division races. A win here would help Cincinnati stay within striking distance in the NL Central, while the Mets are fighting to stay relevant in the East and wild card picture.
The Mets have shown fight at times this season, but the injuries and recent results have created real pressure. Wednesday offers a chance to steal momentum before heading to Philadelphia.
