Reds fell 3-2 to Brewers on June 2, 2025, despite outhitting them. Yelich's HR proved decisive. Explore Cincy's offensive woes & 'tweener' status.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Another nail-biter, another frustrating outcome for the Cincinnati Reds. Monday's 3-2 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers at Great American Ball Park, a game where the Reds outhit their opponents, felt like a stark illustration of their current predicament. This tight defeat comes as ESPN's Jeff Passan labels the team 'tweeners' ahead of the trade deadline, caught between buying and selling, a sentiment underscored by yet another game where the offense couldn't quite break through.
The Reds have scored three runs or fewer in 29 of their 62 games this season, a telling statistic highlighting the team's primary struggle.
The Reds jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the first inning, creating a buzz in the ballpark. However, the Brewers quickly answered with two runs of their own in the second. The decisive blow came in the third when Christian Yelich launched his 13th home run of the season, a solo shot that proved to be the game-winner. Reds starter Nick Lodolo delivered a solid performance, pitching 6 innings, allowing 5 hits and 3 earned runs while striking out 7. Offensively, TJ Friedl was a bright spot, going 2-for-3 with a run and a walk. Despite collecting 8 hits to Milwaukee's 5, Cincinnati couldn't muster the crucial late-game rally, leaving runners stranded. Brewers starter Aaron Civale picked up the win. The loss dropped the Reds to 29-31 on the season.
Adding another layer to the Reds' current situation, ESPN's Jeff Passan's early trade deadline preview categorized Cincinnati as 'tweeners.' This designation reflects a team that isn't clearly a buyer or a seller. Passan praised the Reds' rotation—featuring Hunter Greene, Andrew Abbott, Nick Lodolo, Brady Singer, and Nick Martinez—as one of the most productive in MLB. However, Martinez was also highlighted as a potential trade candidate, given his performance and contract status. Outfielder Austin Hays was noted for having a strong season, potentially increasing his own trade value or making him a key piece to build around. The crux of the 'tweener' issue, and a familiar refrain for fans, is the struggling offense, which has scored three runs or fewer in 29 of 62 games.
There's a glimmer of hope for an offensive boost on the horizon. Infielder Jeimer Candelario has officially begun a rehab assignment with the Rookie-level ACL Reds. This is a positive step in his recovery from injury and signals that his return to the major league roster could be relatively soon, provided his rehab progresses without setbacks. Candelario's bat would be a welcome addition to a lineup that has struggled for consistency.
With the team now 29-31 and the offense still searching for consistency, the coming weeks will be pivotal. Will Candelario's potential return ignite a much-needed spark, or will the front office make strategic moves reflecting their 'tweener' status as the trade deadline draws nearer? The path forward remains uncertain, making every game and every rumor critical for Reds Country.
