The Philadelphia Phillies head to Great American Ball Park on Thursday, July 9, 2026, for a 7:10 PM ET showdown against the Cincinnati Reds. Jesús Luzardo gets the ball for Philadelphia opposite Reds right-hander Brady Singer in what shapes up as a quality pitching matchup in the heart of summer. With the season well past its midpoint, every game in a divisional or interleague context carries real weight in the standings, and the Phillies need road wins to keep pace in what remains a competitive NL East race.

Phillies at Reds: Starting Pitching Matchup

Jesús Luzardo draws the start for the Phillies. The left-hander has shown the ability to be a legitimate middle-of-the-rotation piece when he is locating his fastball and mixing in his secondary offerings effectively. Opposing him is Brady Singer for Cincinnati. Singer is a durable, ground-ball-oriented pitcher who can keep hitters off-balance with his split-changeup. Neither pitcher's current season statistics were available at the time of preview, so judgment on current form is withheld — but both are capable starters who can keep their respective clubs in ballgames.

Cincinnati Reds Lineup to Watch

The Reds are sending out a lineup with genuine threats from top to bottom. Leadoff man Elly De La Cruz at shortstop is one of the most dynamic players in the National League — a pure five-tool talent with elite speed and plus power. Sal Stewart bats second at third base, followed by JJ Bleday in left. Spencer Steer anchors the cleanup spot at first base, with veteran Eugenio Suárez sliding into the DH role at fifth. Tyler Stephenson catches and hits sixth, Noelvi Marte patrols right field from the seven hole, Edwin Arroyo handles second base batting eighth, and TJ Friedl rounds out the order in center.

Keys to the Game for Philadelphia

• Luzardo vs. De La Cruz: How Luzardo handles the top of the Cincinnati order — especially De La Cruz — will set the tone early. De La Cruz's combination of speed and power makes him a threat every time he steps in the box.
• Steer and the middle of the order: Spencer Steer is a dangerous cleanup hitter capable of doing damage against left-handed pitching. Luzardo will need to keep the ball down and work the corners to keep Steer from doing damage.
• Road execution: Great American Ball Park has historically been a hitter-friendly environment. The Phillies' offense — lineup not yet confirmed at preview time — will need to be opportunistic against a Singer who can be stingy with free passes.
• Bullpen depth: If Luzardo works deep into the game, the Phillies can manage their relief arms carefully. A short outing puts pressure on a bullpen that will be critical down the stretch.

Prediction

This one figures to be a tight, competitive ballgame driven by pitching on both sides. Singer at home at Great American is a real challenge, but Luzardo has the stuff to match him. The Phillies have enough offensive firepower to scratch out runs, and if Luzardo can limit the damage De La Cruz and Steer can do, Philadelphia has a real shot at taking this one on the road. Phillies 4, Reds 3. Catch the game on NBCSP or on 94 WIP on the radio.