New York Mets vs Cincinnati Reds: Picks, Predictions and Props - 6/17/2026
Use Code WWWC The New York Mets and Cincinnati Reds wrap up their series at Great American Ball Park on June 17, 2026, in an afternoon clash featuring intriguing pitching storylines and valuable betting opportunities. We break down the matchup with our official game predictions, moneyline and total picks, and top player props.
Best Available Odds for Mets vs Reds
- Best Moneyline Odds: New York Mets -120, Cincinnati Reds +115
- Best Spread Odds: New York Mets -1.5 (+126), Cincinnati Reds +1.5 (-135)
- Best Total Odds: Over 9.5 (+115), Under 9.0 (-105)
Game Info
- Date: June 17, 2026
- Time: 12:40 PM EDT
- Location: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, OH
New York Mets vs Cincinnati Reds Preview
The Cincinnati Reds enter this series finale looking to complete a three-game sweep of the New York Mets after dominant performances in the first two games, outscoring New York 17-3. The Mets have struggled to find their footing on the road, while the Reds have played solid baseball at home to maintain a balanced record. With both teams dealing with notable injuries to key players, including shortstops Francisco Lindor and Elly De La Cruz, depth and starting pitching will be the deciding factors in this afternoon matchup.
Pitching Matchup
The Mets will send right-hander Nolan McLean (3-4) to the mound. McLean started the season strong with a 2.55 ERA through April, but he has been on a downward trajectory, with his ERA rising to 4.01 by mid-June. In his previous start against Cincinnati on May 25, McLean was hit hard, lasting just 3.1 innings and allowing seven earned runs. Opposing hitters like JJ Bleday and Tyler Stephenson have already homered off McLean in limited career plate appearances.
The Reds counter with left-hander Nick Lodolo (2-1), who carries a 5.21 ERA through 38 innings this season. Despite his overall struggles, Lodolo has historically performed well against the Mets, striking out seven batters in each of his two starts at Great American Ball Park. While Mets hitters like Marcus Semien (.500 BA, 1 HR in 6 PA) and Bo Bichette (.667 BA in 3 PA) have had success against him, Lodolo has completely neutralized Mark Vientos (0-for-6 with 3 strikeouts).
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Game Thesis: We expect the Cincinnati Reds to complete the series sweep in a high-scoring game. Nolan McLean's recent decline and past struggles against this Cincinnati lineup point to an early exit, while the Reds' offense should continue its hot streak at home. Although the Mets' offense will likely find some success against Nick Lodolo, the Reds' bats will ultimately carry them to victory in a high-scoring environment.
Best Bet - Moneyline Pick: Cincinnati Reds (+115)
The Reds are playing excellent baseball at home and have completely controlled the first two games of this series. With Nolan McLean struggling over the last six weeks and carrying a 4.01 ERA, the Reds are in a prime position to capitalize. Getting the home team at plus-money odds of +115 represents outstanding value, especially considering McLean's previous disaster against Cincinnati where he surrendered seven earned runs in just over three innings.
Spread Pick: Cincinnati Reds +1.5 (-135)
For bettors looking for extra security, backing the Reds on the run line at +1.5 is a highly logical play. Given our thesis that the Reds are poised to win this game outright, getting 1.5 runs of insurance at -135 odds is a strong position. The Mets have struggled to generate consistent run support on the road, making a multi-run victory for New York highly unlikely in this spot.
Total Pick: Over 9.5 (+115)
Great American Ball Park is historically one of the most hitter-friendly venues in baseball, and both starting pitchers have shown significant vulnerability recently. McLean's ERA is ballooning, and Lodolo has allowed at least three earned runs in five of his seven starts this season. With both bullpens heavily taxed after consecutive games, we expect plenty of runs to be scored, making the Over 9.5 at +115 an appealing play.
Top Player Prop Picks for Mets vs Reds
Juan Soto Over 0.5 Hits + Walks (-115): Soto has been incredibly consistent, clearing this line in each of his last five games and holding an 89.29% hit rate on the season. He also has a home run in his career matchups against Nick Lodolo, making this a highly favorable spot.
Bo Bichette Over 1.5 Hits + Runs + RBIs (-160): Bichette has cleared this line in 100% of his last five games and is batting .667 (2-for-3) in his career against Lodolo. His hot streak should continue as the Mets look to generate offense in a high-scoring environment.
JJ Bleday Over 0.5 Hits (-180): Bleday has a hit in 60% of his last five games and has historically found success against Nolan McLean, including a home run in their previous matchups. He is well-positioned to contribute to the Reds' of
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