The Cincinnati Reds kicked off the 2025 MLB season with an electrifying Opening Day at Great American Ball Park on March 27, 2025, facing off against the San Francisco Giants. The excitement surrounding the game was palpable as fans gathered to celebrate the return of baseball, with the festivities beginning well before the first pitch.
As is tradition, the day commenced with the Findlay Market Opening Day Parade, which started at noon. This year’s parade featured Reds Hall of Famer Chris Sabo as the grand marshal, alongside NASCAR icon Michael Waltrip, who served as the honorary captain of the game. The parade was broadcast live on WLWT, allowing fans at home to partake in the festivities.
Before the game, the Reds Community Fund Charity Block Party took place at the Banks, running from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Attendees enjoyed food, drinks, and live entertainment from local bands like Naked Karate Girls and DJ etrayn. All proceeds from the block party benefited the Reds Community Fund’s baseball and softball outreach programs, underscoring the team’s commitment to community engagement.
Fans streamed into Great American Ball Park as the gates opened at 2:10 p.m., with each attendee receiving a 2025 Reds schedule sticker. The pre-game ceremonies kicked off around 3:30 p.m., featuring a presentation of Opening Day plaques to Reds manager Terry Francona and Giants manager Bob Melvin by representatives from the Rosie Reds organization.
The national anthem was performed by Marlana VanHoose, while the crowd was treated to a stunning pre-game flyover by two KC-135 Stratotankers from the 121st Air Refueling Wing of the Ohio Air National Guard, based in Columbus, Ohio. A moment of remembrance was also observed for Reds Hall of Famers Joey Jay and Pete Rose, honoring the legacy of the franchise.
As the clock approached 4:10 p.m., anticipation reached its peak. Chris Sabo threw out the ceremonial first pitch, officially marking the start of the 2025 season. Reds right-hand pitcher Hunter Greene took the mound, ready to lead his team into battle against the Giants.
In terms of performance, both teams came into the game with high expectations. The Reds were looking to build on last season’s success, where Elly De La Cruz made a notable impact with a .259 batting average, 25 home runs, and 76 RBIs. Spencer Steer also contributed significantly with a .225 average, 20 homers, and 92 RBIs. The Reds' lineup was bolstered by Gavin Lux, who finished last season with 10 home runs and a .251 average, and Jeimer Candelario, who posted a .225 average with a .429 slugging percentage.
On the other side, the Giants boasted some impressive talent as well. Willy Adames had a standout season in 2024, hitting 32 home runs and driving in 112 runs. Matt Chapman also made his mark with 39 doubles, two triples, and 27 home runs while batting .247. Heliot Ramos and Mike Yastrzemski rounded out a formidable lineup, both looking to make their presence felt in the upcoming matchup.
The game was set to be broadcast on FDSOH and NBCS-BA, with predictions favoring the Reds slightly, with a 55% chance of victory compared to the Giants’ 45%. The score prediction was a close one, with many anticipating a thrilling contest ending in a 5-4 Reds victory, and a total of over 7.5 runs expected.
As the game unfolded, the atmosphere in the ballpark was electric, with fans cheering and rallying behind their teams. Each pitch from Greene was met with roars from the crowd, as they hoped to see their team secure a win on this momentous occasion.
Throughout the game, special recognitions were also made. Firefighter and paramedic Ralph Vilardo was honored as the Kroger First Responder of the game at the end of the first inning, while retired Master Sergeant Joe Martin was celebrated as the altafiber Hometown Hero of the game at the end of the second inning. In a touching tribute, retired Technical Sergeant Felita LaRock performed “God Bless America” during the seventh-inning stretch, further enhancing the sense of community and patriotism surrounding the event.
As the game progressed, fans were treated to a showcase of skill and determination from both teams, with each inning bringing new excitement and tension. The Reds and Giants battled fiercely, with both pitchers showcasing their talents and the hitters looking to capitalize on any mistakes.
With the season now officially underway, the Reds have a busy schedule ahead, with more matchups against the Giants on March 29 and 30, followed by a series against the Texas Rangers starting on March 31. The Giants, meanwhile, will also face the Astros shortly after their games in Cincinnati, setting the stage for an exciting start to the season.
As the dust settles from Opening Day, one thing is clear: the Cincinnati Reds are ready to make their mark in the 2025 season, and fans are eager to see how this chapter unfolds. With a blend of veteran leadership and youthful exuberance, the Reds are poised for a thrilling season filled with promise and potential.
