The Cincinnati Reds are poised to complete a three-game sweep of the New York Mets on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at Great American Ball Park. With a commanding lead in the series, the Reds will send left-handed pitcher Nick Lodolo to the mound, while the Mets counter with rookie Nolan McLean.

The series has been dominated by the Reds, who have outscored the Mets 17-3 in the first two games. As the Reds look

Key Matchups and Storylines

The game promises several compelling storylines. Notably, Reds shortstop Matt McLain has the chance to make history. If McLain homers off McLean, it would be the first time a McLain has homered off a McLean in Major League Baseball history—a unique and memorable feat.

For Lodolo, the game represents another opportunity to find his best form after a challenging start to the 2026 season. Blister issues have plagued the left-hander, but he has shown signs of improvement in recent outings. His ability to limit walks and hit batters will be crucial against a Mets lineup eager to avoid a sweep.

Pitching Performance and Splits

Nick Lodolo has had a mixed season, with control issues affecting his early starts. After walking 13 batters and hitting five more in May, Lodolo has shown better command in June, walking just two batters in his last two starts. However, he has also hit three batters in his last outing, highlighting his ongoing struggles with accuracy.

Lodolo’s splits reveal a stark contrast between his performance against left-handed and right-handed hitters. Lefties have feasted on him, hitting for a.400 average and a.543 slugging percentage. Right-handed hitters, while not hitting for a high average, have shown power, with a.505 slugging percentage.

Nolan McLean on the other hand, has had a solid rookie campaign. However, his last two starts in mid-to-late May were disastrous, as he surrendered 16 runs in just 9.0 innings. Since then, he has bounced back, allowing no more than three runs in any of his subsequent 12 starts.

McLean’s splits show that right-handed hitters struggle against him, while left-handed hitters have a higher on-base percentage and show occasional power. Like Lodolo, McLean has a tendency to hit batters, with eight hit batters on the season.

Game Details and Viewing Information

The game is scheduled for a 12:40 PM ET first pitch, with the weather expected to be partly cloudy and a slight chance of rain. Fans can catch the action on Reds MLB Channel (in-market), and (out of market). For those in the Cincinnati area, the game will be broadcast on 700 WLW AM.

The Mets enter the game with a 32-41 record, placing them fifth in the NL East. The Reds, with a 35-37 record, are fifth in the NL Central. The Mets are favored with a -135 moneyline, while the Reds have +110 odds. The over/under for the game is set at 9 runs.

As the Reds look to complete the sweep and the Mets aim to salvage a game, all eyes will be on the pitching duel between Lodolo and McLean. Will Lodolo find his groove and lead the Reds to victory, or will McLean rise to the occasion and prevent the sweep? One thing is certain: Wednesday’s game promises to be an exciting conclusion to the series.