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Reds' Will Benson and Guardians Set for Exciting Clash at Great American Ball Park

First Inning


As the Reds prepare to host the Guardians at Great American Ball Park, all eyes will be on Will Benson, the standout right fielder for the Reds. Over the past three games, Benson has been a force at the plate, boasting an impressive .667 batting average in their most recent matchup against the White Sox. His ability to drive in runs was on full display with 3 RBIs and a home run, contributing significantly to his team's offensive prowess. With a fielding percentage of 1.0 across these games, Benson's defensive skills are equally commendable.


Jun 12, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds outfielder TJ Friedl (29) reacts after the victory over the Cleveland Guardians at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports

The Guardians will look to counter with José Ramírez, their third baseman who has consistently delivered at-bats with precision. In their recent encounters with the Brewers, Ramírez maintained a .500 batting average and showcased his power with two home runs over three games. His OPS of 1.75 highlights his ability to get on base and slug effectively.


Middle Innings


As we move into the middle innings, expect both teams' pitchers to play pivotal roles in determining the game's outcome. For the Reds, Luis Mey stands out as a starting pitcher with an ERA of 0.0 in his last appearance against the White Sox. His remarkable strikeout rate of 18 per nine innings demonstrates his capability to dominate opposing hitters.


Jun 12, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Guardians second baseman Andres Gimenez (0) throws to first to get Cincinnati Reds outfielder Jake Fraley (not pictured) out in the fourth inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports

On the other side, Gavin Williams from the Guardians will aim to keep Reds' batters in check. With an ERA of 3.6 and a WHIP of 1.0 against Milwaukee, Williams has shown he can handle pressure situations effectively.


Late Innings


In the late innings, relief pitching could become crucial for both squads. Nick Martinez of the Reds has proven reliable out of the bullpen with an ERA of 0.0 and a WHIP of just 0.2857 over recent outings. His ability to limit baserunners could be vital if this game comes down to tight margins.


Jun 12, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Nick Lodolo (40) pitches against the Cleveland Guardians in the first inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Clase from Cleveland offers similar reliability for his team’s bullpen strategy with an ERA of 0.0 and an impressive strikeout rate matching that of Martinez’s efficiency.


As fans anticipate this exciting matchup between two competitive teams on May 17th at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati (broadcasted by CLEG), it’s clear that individual performances from key players like Will Benson and José Ramírez could tip scales dramatically during crucial moments throughout each inning played under bright stadium lights—don't miss out! Share this article if you're excited about what promises another thrilling chapter added into storied rivalry between these formidable baseball clubs!

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