The Battle of Ohio continues in Cincinnati

After Cincinnati (57-56) split two games in Cleveland (57-56), the Reds return home hoping to end the team’s recent woes against the Indians with Mat Latos (3-3, 3.07) on the mound.

The right-handed pitcher is an impressive 4-0 at home with a 3.57 ERA during interleague play over the past three seasons, including a 2.03 ERA with 14 strikeouts against the Tribe.

As for the Indians, the team is attempting to stay in the playoff hunt less than a week after trading Justin Masterson and Asdrúbal Cabrera. If the team has any hopes for October, it’s going to need Nick Swisher to turn around his season. He’s currently hitting .212, and recently strained his wrist.

Indians Coach Terry Francona said, “He’s vastly improved to the point where he can start being available.”

Speaking of starting, Cleveland will have Danny Salazar (4-4, 4.45) toeing the rubber. Since being recalled from the minors, the right-handed pitcher has a 2.00 ERA with 17 strikeouts. He won all three starts, including a victory over Texas last Friday where he gave up only one unearned run over the course of six innings pitched.

Salazar said, “I feel like I’m making progress every time I go out there.”

Considering the tough pitching match-up, the under is in play tonight at 7. Also, the Indians are 27-28-2 as an away team with the under, while the Reds are 23-29-2 as the home team. Good pitching keeps this game from going over.