These two teams have been scoring runs and that's reflected with the Reds going over in their last six games and the Cardinals going over in their last four.

Discount a 9-1 loss to the Brewers two games ago and the Reds are averaging 6.2 runs in their last five games. The Cardinals are averaging 5.8 runs in their last six games sparked by a hot Dexter Fowler, the catalyst to their attack.

The pitching matchup is Tim Adleman versus Lance Lynn. Adleman was hit hard during spring training. He's only in the Reds' starting rotation because of injuries. Adelman started 13 games last season and gave up 13 homers. So he's very vulnerable to the long ball.

Lynn is making a comeback after missing all of last season because of Tommy John surgery. He is pitching well, but pitchers coming off serious elbow surgery like Lynn did usually need a couple of years before regaining consistency. The Reds' lineup should be more powerful at cather with Devin Mesoraco set to make his season debut.

Note there is a 50 percent chance of rain. A long rain delay could put middle relievers into the game sooner and for greater stretches. Neither team has strong bullpen depth.