Brewers-Reds Game 2 Preview

The Cincinnati Reds struck first in a big four game series against the Milwaukee Brewers last night as they try to get slime their NL Central lead, which was at 7.5 before the game, with the win, they trail the Brewers by 6.5.

With Ryan Braun expected back later in the series, the Reds look to take advantage and hopefully take game 2 of the series hope tonight

Apr 26, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Mike Leake (44) throws a pitch against the Atlanta Braves in the second inning at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

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Jean Segura (bruised cheek) missed most of the previous four games, while Aramis Ramirez (elbow) missed parts of the prior three before both started in last night’s game.

The short-handed Brewers (20-9) have struggled offensively of late, totaling 16 runs and hitting .219 while dropping three of five after an 18-6 start.

Wily Peralta will be on the mound for the Brewers. On Sunday, he gave up three runs and struck out six over seven innings in a 4-0 home loss to the Chicago Cubs.

Peralta is 1-3 with a 3.86 ERA in six career starts against the Reds.

Chris Heisey has a homerun off Peralta and has four hits in six at-bats lifetime in the matchup. He went 2 for 4 Thursday after replacing speedy leadoff man Billy Hamilton, who sprained knuckles on his left hand while making a diving catch.

”We’re optimistic that he’ll only miss a day or two, but we won’t know for a day or two,” manager Bryan Price said.

After hitting .212 with two home runs over their previous six games, the Reds finished with 12 hits, three homers, and snapped a 3-all tie with a five-run eighth inning en route to their second win in six contests.

Cincinnati starter Mike Leake hopes to get back on track after surrendering four runs and a career high-tying three homers over seven innings in Saturday’s 4-1 loss at Atlanta.

”Just pitches left where they could hit it,” said Leake, who settled in to retire 11 of the last 14 batters. “Mistakes.”

The right-hander also has struggled with the long ball against the Brewers, going 1-0 with a 4.55 ERA while allowing seven homers in five career starts.

First pitch is at 7:10pm, TV: FSN OHIO, RADIO: 700 WLW.