Don't sleep on Hayden Wesneski's ability to rack up strikeouts when the Chicago Cubs face the Cincinnati Reds — 4.5 strikeouts is just the beginning.

Sports betting enthusiasts and Chicago Cubs fans, listen up! We're diving deep into the world of strikeouts, and there's one name you need to keep an eye on: Hayden Wesneski. This fireballer is making waves in the MLB, and when the Cubs take on the Cincinnati Reds, there's a solid chance he'll surpass the over of 4.5 strikeouts. Let's break down the stats and see why Wesneski is the real deal.

So far last season, Wesneski is averaging 5.5 strikeouts per game. When he's on the road, he's even more impressive, averaging 6.0 strikeouts. In his last 20 games, he's maintained that 5.5 average, and in his last 10 games, he's still hitting that mark. Even though he's trending down slightly in his last 5 games, averaging 5.0 strikeouts, he's still managed to exceed 4.5 strikeouts in 3 of those games. 

Now, let's talk about his performance against the Reds specifically. In the two games Wesneski has faced Cincinnati, he's been a strikeout machine, averaging 7.0 strikeouts per game. That's a significant bump compared to his overall average, and it's a clear indicator that he's got the Reds' number.

Last season, Wesneski covered the over of 4.5 strikeouts in 4 out of 6 games. That's a 66.7% success rate, and it's not something to be taken lightly. When you combine that with his performance against Cincinnati, it's hard not to feel confident in his ability to surpass the 4.5 strikeout line.

Now, let's take a moment to consider the competition. The Reds are going to counter Wesneski with Luis Cessa, a reliever-turned-starter who posted a 4-4 record and a 4.57 ERA in 2022. Cessa has faced the Cubs 11 times in his career, making three starts, and has yet to record a win or a loss. He's sporting a 4.00 ERA against the Cubs in 18 innings of work, with 18 strikeouts to his name.

This matchup is shaping up to be a prime opportunity for Wesneski to flex his strikeout skills against a Reds lineup that may struggle against his electric stuff. While there are never any guarantees in the world of sports betting, the numbers are stacked in Wesneski's favor, and it's hard not to feel confident about his chances of surpassing the 4.5 strikeout line.

So, for all you sports bettors and Cubs fans out there, keep a close eye on Hayden Wesneski in this upcoming game against the Cincinnati Reds. There's a solid chance he'll continue his strikeout success, and if you're looking for a thrilling wager to place, the over of 4.5 strikeouts for Wesneski is definitely one to consider.

Remember, as always, to bet responsibly and enjoy the game. But don't be surprised when Hayden Wesneski starts racking up those Ks and makes the over 4.5 strikeouts look like a walk in the park.