After losing a series to the Washington Nationals earlier in the week, the Reds are 53-50 and sit 2 1/2 games out of the third and final National League Wild Card spot. The Reds desperately could use a right-handed power bat as well as bullpen help.

Nick Lodolo pitched his first complete game with eight strikeouts, Nick Fraley and Santiago Espinal each had two hits and the Cincinnati Reds beat the Washington Nationals 5-0.

One team that could use an influx of young and consistent starting pitching is the Boston Red Sox. While ace Garrett Crochet continues to be worth every penny and Lucas Giolito and Brayan Bello have emerged as key arms in the last month,

Preview the July 21 matchup between the Cincinnati Reds and Washington Nationals with recent trends, how to watch, livestream info, and more.

Cincinnati Reds left-hander Nick Lodolo (8-6) lowered his ERA to 3.08 with his first career shutout, second by Reds (also Andrew Abbott).

The Reds, who lost the first two games of the series, avoided being swept for the first time this season. Cincinnati set a franchise record with 33 straight series without being swept, breaking the mark of 32 set by the 1970 Reds, who went on to win the National League pennant.

Martinez went on to say the trade deadline was motivation for the 2025 Reds, who stood at 54-50 after Friday's victory and one game back of the San Diego Padres for the third National League Wild Card.