What happened: Jesus Luzardo starts for the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday against the Cincinnati Reds. He faces right-hander Brady Singer. The series between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Cincinnati Reds is tied 1-1.
Why it matters: Luzardo is pitching to the expectations of his $135 million offseason extension following a rocky opening month. Singer is attempting to build his market value ahead of his impending free agency this winter. A quality start could boost his appeal as the trade deadline nears.
By the numbers: Luzardo holds a 2.57 ERA with 95 strikeouts across 80.2 innings over his last 14 starts. Singer has recorded a 3.16 ERA and a 35-to-14 strikeout-to-walk ratio in his previous six appearances. Philadelphia enters the matchup as a
What to watch: First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET in Cincinnati. The game concludes the three-game matchup between the National League clubs.