Cincinnati Reds and St. Louis Cardinals seek stability in upcoming series

The Cincinnati Reds and the St. Louis Cardinals open a three‑game series with both clubs looking for consistency. The Reds are grappling with multiple injuries, including a 60‑day IL stint for setup man Graham Ashcraft and a hamstring strain to shortstop Elly De La Cruz that will sideline her for several weeks. Starting pitcher Brady Singer (2‑5, 6.18 ERA) has yet to earn a win in May, and the bullpen has struggled to close games.

The Cardinals are also managing roster concerns. Rookie infielder JJ Wetherholt is out with a groin injury, and manager Oliver Marmol says the team will not rush his return. St. Louis will counter with right‑hander Kyle Leahy (5‑3, 4.25 ERA), who has won his last three starts, and will rely on outfielder Jordan Walker, who recently delivered a multi‑hit, multi‑run performance. Both clubs sit near the top of the NL Central, with the Cardinals 5 games behind the division lead and the Reds in last place, making the series a pivotal test for their season fortunes.