The Chicago Cubs head to Great American Ball Park on Friday, September 18, for a 6:40 PM ET showdown against the Cincinnati Reds. Clay Holmes gets the ball for Chicago against Cincinnati's Chase Burns in what figures to be a critical late-September regular season matchup. With the calendar winding down and every game carrying weight, the Cubs need a strong road performance to leave Cincinnati with a win.

Cubs vs. Reds Pitching Matchup: Clay Holmes vs. Chase Burns

Clay Holmes draws the start for the Cubs on Friday night. Holmes has been a key part of the Cubs' pitching operation this season, and his performance in this start will set the tone for what could be a pivotal weekend series. The Cubs will be counting on Holmes to work deep into the game and limit damage against a Reds lineup that has legitimate threats throughout.

Chase Burns takes the hill for Cincinnati. The young right-hander has been one of the more intriguing arms in the National League this season, and he presents a genuine challenge for Chicago's offense. The Cubs' hitters will need to grind out at-bats and work the count if they want to get to Burns early.

Cincinnati Reds Starting Lineup to Watch

The Reds are rolling out a lineup with real firepower. Manager-constructed order highlights include:

• Carlos Jorge (CF) leads off and sets the table at the top.
• Elly De La Cruz bats second at shortstop. De La Cruz is one of the most electric players in the National League — his combination of speed and raw power makes him a threat every time he steps in the box.
• Sal Stewart slots in at first base in the three-hole.
• Tyler Stephenson serves as the cleanup designated hitter.
• JJ Bleday, Eugenio Suárez, Héctor Rodríguez, Jose Trevino, and Matt McLain round out the bottom of the order.

Elly De La Cruz is the name Holmes absolutely cannot afford to lose focus on. Let De La Cruz get comfortable and this Reds lineup can blow a game open in a hurry.

Keys to the Game for the Cubs

• Holmes must limit the big inning. The Reds have the kind of lineup that can pile on once they get momentum. Holmes needs to pitch out of trouble cleanly and avoid the multi-run frame.
• Neutralize De La Cruz. Whether at the plate or on the basepaths, De La Cruz changes games. The Cubs' battery must have a plan and stick to it.
• Make Burns work. If the Cubs can get into the Reds' bullpen early, they improve their chances significantly. Patient at-bats against Burns are essential.
• Capitalize on scoring chances. Road games at Great American Ball Park have a way of getting away from you if you strand runners. The Cubs must convert when they have men on base.

Prediction

This is a legitimate pitching duel on paper. Holmes will need to be sharp in a hitter-friendly environment in Cincinnati, and Burns gives the Reds a real advantage at home. That said, the Cubs have the pitching depth and lineup quality to compete in any environment. Expect a close, low-scoring game that likely comes down to the late innings. Cubs pull it out 4-2. Catch the game on Marquee Sports Network or listen on 104.3 The Score.