The Red Sox and Reds are getting ready for the start of their season, with higher expectations after both teams made the postseason in 2025. Opening Day in Cincinnati is a big event, complete with a parade.
Playoff Ambitions in Mind
Both clubs are aiming for a more extended playoff run after being knocked out in the first round last season. The Red Sox finished 89-73, placing third in the American League East, before losing to the Yankees in the AL Wild Card Series in three games.
To strengthen their pitching, the Red Sox added Ranger Suarez and Sonny Gray through free agency and trade. They also acquired Willson Contreras to boost their offensive capabilities.
The Reds, managed by Terry Francona, finished 83-79, securing third place in the National League Central. They clinched their playoff spot on the final day of the regular season, only to be swept by the Dodgers in two games during the NL Wild Card Series.
Cincinnati has improved their offense by signing former Red Eugenio Suárez. After re-signing Emilio Pagán, they bolstered their bullpen with additions like Pierce Johnson.
- Key players like Elly De La Cruz and Matt McLain are expected to contribute significantly.
- Rookie Sal Stewart is also anticipated to have a big season.
Viewing Details for Red Sox vs. Reds
The game is scheduled to commence at 4:10 p.m. ET on Thursday at Great American Ball Park. For Red Sox fans, the game will be televised on NESN, with radio coverage on 93.7 WEEI-FM and the Red Sox Radio Network.
Reds fans can watch on Reds.TV or Fox-19, with radio coverage on 700 WLW-AM and the Reds Radio Network. Out-of-market games are available on MLB.TV, subject to restrictions. Live games are also available in select countries outside the US.
Crochet to Start on the Mound
Garrett Crochet is slated to start for the Red Sox. The 26-year-old left-hander had an impressive season in ‘25, going 18-5 with a 2.59 ERA.
Crochet is seen as the potential next ace for the Red Sox, following in the footsteps of Roger Clemens, Pedro Martinez, Curt Schilling, Jon Lester, and Chris Sale. Known as “Beast” by his teammates, Crochet made a name for himself in Game 1 of last year’s AL Wild Card Series against the Yankees.
In that game, he pitched 7 2/3 innings, allowing one run, walking none, and striking out 11. Crochet’s pitching run value and breaking run value both placed him in the 99th percentile last season.
Following his breakout season, Crochet aims to maintain his high level of performance. He logged 205 1/3 innings, a significant increase from the previous year.