The New York Mets return from the All-Star break looking to start the second half on a high note as they host the Cincinnati Reds tonight.
With two solid southpaws taking the mound, our Reds vs. Mets predictions lean towards a low-scoring affair — making the Under the sharp play for this matchup.
Keep reading to see a full breakdown of my free MLB picks for Friday, July 18.
Reds vs Mets prediction
My Reds vs Mets best bet: Under 7.5 (+100 at BetMGM)
New York Mets starter Sean Manaea spent nearly the entire first half of the season on the injured list, first due to a strained right oblique muscle, then after a loose body was found in his left elbow.
However, Manaea made a sterling debut on July 31, lasting 3 1/3 innings out of the bullpen and striking out seven batters while allowing just one run.
Manaea gets his first start of the year tonight against the Cincinnati Reds, who counter with left-hander Nick Lodolo.
The 27-year-old Lodolo is having the best season of his career, posting a 3.38 ERA and 1.106 WHIP over 106 2/3 innings of work. The lefty was especially hot heading into the All-Star break, going 2-1 with a 2.28 ERA in his last five starts.
Having two left-handed starters on the mound bodes well for Under bettors. The Mets sport a measly .671 OPS against southpaws, while Cincinnati’s mark is even lower at .658.
The Under is also 7-2 in New York’s last nine games, while the Reds have hit it in seven of their last nine outings.
I’m backing those trends to continue tonight.
Reds vs Mets same-game parlay (SGP)
Under 7.5
Reds moneyline
Nick Lodolo Over 4.5 strikeouts
I’m also taking the Reds to win outright tonight, as the plus number on Cincinnati is hard to pass up tonight.
Meanwhile, Lodolo has eclipsed 4.5 Ks in seven of his last 10 starts, and the Mets have struck out in 21.7% of their plate appearances against southpaws.
Reds vs Mets odds
Reds vs Mets live odds
Reds vs Mets opening odds
- Moneyline: Cincinnati +145 | New York -170
- Run line: Cincinnati +1.5 (-150) | New York -1.5 (+125)
- Over/Under: Over 8 (-115) | Under 8 (-105)
Reds vs Mets trend
New York has only hit the team total Over in 23 of its last 55 games (-14.45 Units / -22% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Reds vs. Mets.
How to watch Reds vs Mets and game info
| Location | Citi Field, Flushing, NY |
| Date | Friday, 7-18-2025 |
| First pitch | 7:10 p.m. ET |
| TV | FDSNOH, SNY |
| Reds starting pitcher | Nick Lodolo (6-6, 3.38 ERA) |
| Mets starting pitcher | Sean Manaea (0-1, 2.70 ERA) |
Reds vs Mets latest injuries
Reds vs Mets weather
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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