Cincinnati Reds Finalize MLB Wild Card Roster Ahead Dodgers Showdown

The Cincinnati Reds face a critical must-win Game 2 against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL Wild Card Series after losing Game 1, prompting manager Terry Francona to make bold lineup changes, including starting Sal Stewart at first base and moving Austin Hays to right field. Pitching decisions remain a key focus, with Zack Littell surprisingly starting Game 2 and Nick Lodolo shifting to bullpen duties due to recent workload concerns, while Hunter Greene will start Game 1 in his first postseason appearance. The Reds have difficult roster decisions due to MLB playoff rules limiting teams to 26 players and roughly 12 pitchers, with considerations about whether to carry Brady Singer, and whether Austin Hays is healthy enough to play. The team also contemplates adding a left-handed reliever and possibly calling up an extra position player like Blake Dunn. Despite the challenges, Francona remains focused on maximizing the Reds' chances against the defending World Series champion Dodgers, who have announced their starting pitchers for the series. The Reds' pitching and lineup strategies underscore their urgency in this short, high-stakes playoff series.