Cincinnati at St. Louis

The Cincinnati Reds have some work to do as they have fallen 5.5 games off the pace for the second NL Wild Card spot. After earning a spot on the All-Star team, Alfredo Simon gone winless since the break, but he still has plus stuff and is capable of going long and strong each time he takes the mound. Simon will also be facing the Cardinals for the first time in his career as a starter. John Lackey has a decent 12-8 record on the season, and has had a mixed bag of results since coming to St. Louis. Lackey has a 3.91 ERA on the season, so his record may appear better than what he has given. The Reds are in a strong spot as they have come roaring back after a game in which they allowed 5 or more runs, having gone 78-35 in the next contest. The Reds come roaring back tonight, so make the play on Cincinnati.