Juan Francisco, Alfonso Alonso and Todd Frazier, the heart of the Louisville lineup most of the year, all hit home runs to beat St. Louis and ensure the season series between the two combative teams.
The Reds picked on Chris Carpenter like he was the schoolyard snitch but scoring five runs in the second inning. The key blow was a two-run double by Francisco.
Johnny Cueto on a rare off night couldn't hold the lead and the Cardinals tied the game.
A pinch hit home run off the right field foul pole by Frazier untied it but David Freese hit one off Jose Arredondo to knot the contest anew.
Tony La Russa was in managerial heaven when he confidently brought on lefty, Marc Rzepczynski to face five Reds lefthanded hitters in a row. Before "his smugness" posterior hit the pine, Jay Bruce singled and Alonso hit his fourth home run of the season to foil the plot and give Cincinnati an 8-6 lead.
The Cardinals scored off Aroldis Chapman but Francisco, who has the reputation as a free swinger, worked the count to 3-1 then launched a long three-run home run off Kyle McClellan in the ninth to give Francisco Cordero extra breathing room.
The Reds are 8-5 against the Cardinals this season with two to play. Last season the Cardinals won 12 of 18 meetings, although the Reds had the last laugh by winning the NL Central.
This game put the Cardinals another game behind the Milwaukee Brewers, who appear to be in control of the Division.
Cincinnati Sports News and Commentary
About Me
- Gary Schatz
- I am a freelance writer. I've covered the Cincinnati Reds, Bengals and others since 1992. I have a background in sales as well. I've sold consumer electronics, advertising and consumer package goods for companies ranging from the now defunct Circuit City to Procter&Gamble. I have worked as a stats operator for Xavier University, the University of Cincinnati, the College of Mount St. Joe and Colerain High School.
No comments:
Post a Comment