The Cincinnati Reds and Miami Marlins wrap up their three-game series at loanDepot Park on April 23, 2025, in a matchup that presents both clubs with an early-season opportunity to generate momentum and gain footing in their respective divisions. The Reds enter with an 11–13 record and are trending upward thanks to improved offensive output and an ability to manufacture runs in key moments, especially during road games where they’ve been quietly effective. Cincinnati has covered the run line in eight of their last eleven road contests and five of their last seven matchups with the Marlins, proving they’re more than capable of competing in hostile environments. They’ve shown a consistent knack for putting the ball in play, stretching opposing starters, and taking advantage of bullpen weaknesses, which is especially relevant against a Marlins team that has struggled to protect leads late in games. The Marlins, currently 11–12, have found their footing after a slow start, but their home form has been disappointing, covering the spread in just one of their last six games at loanDepot Park. Their bullpen woes have compounded issues in tight games, where they’ve often been outperformed in the later innings. Offensively, Miami has relied on a mix of contact hitting and opportunistic base running, but they’ve lacked the kind of sustained offensive pressure that can overwhelm opponents. One major advantage in this series finale is the presence of ace Sandy Alcantara on the mound for the Marlins.

Alcantara brings stability to a shaky rotation and is capable of going deep into games, providing a crucial buffer to protect the Marlins from their late-inning vulnerabilities. His ability to keep hitters off balance with a dominant sinker and changeup will be key in limiting the Reds’ early-game momentum. The Reds will counter with a starter looking to eat innings and keep Miami’s offense in check just long enough to turn the game over to their own bullpen, which has been inconsistent but improving. Historical trends suggest another high-scoring affair, with six of the last seven meetings between these clubs in Miami going OVER the total. That reflects not only the inconsistencies in both teams’ bullpens but also their ability to trade blows offensively when needed. The key factors in this matchup will be early offensive execution by the Reds, Alcantara’s efficiency and ability to suppress extra-base hits, and whether Miami can deliver in late-inning situations—a scenario where they’ve faltered frequently in 2025. With both clubs sitting just under .500, this game serves as more than just a rubber match; it’s an opportunity for either side to emerge from the series with renewed confidence and upward trajectory. If the Reds can continue to capitalize on their road rhythm and find a few timely hits, they could once again outslug the Marlins. On the other hand, if Alcantara dominates and the Marlins can avoid costly bullpen miscues, this game could be Miami’s to control from the mound. Either way, expect another tightly contested, high-energy matchup as both teams look to close out the series on a high note.