Pitching Duel Goes Reds Way In 11 Innings On Spencer Steer's Walk Off Home Run

 

The game between the Reds and San Diego Padres started early to avoid a conflict with a big Taylor Swift concert at Paul Brown Stadium.

Reds' hero of the day, Spencer Steer, did not know about Swift's hit song titles, "Shake It Off, End Game or Bye Bye Baby but the title at least applied to the Reds walk off, 7-5 win.

The Padres came into the game with the Reds with five straight losses.  Elly De la Cruz doubled home Jonathan India and Steer homered to hand the Reds'  a third straight win. 

Kevin Newman bunted De la Cruz to third. De la Cruz was out at the plate.on a ground ball to shortstop. He beat the throw but his hand hit the catchers foot and not home plate. The Reds had it reviewed. Steer was unfazed and launched his 13th home run off Drew Carlton and the Reds walked off with their 30th come-from-behind win of the season.

"It was pretty cool that it worked out there," Steer said without with a calm demeanor. "We think we have a win and then the call doesn't go our way. I know I kind of said one of those moments. Make something happen here. It was a weird situations. I probably won't have another one in my career. You wait to see what happens. Me and Steve (Stephenson) were talking. If the call gets overturned, it is going to be the weirdest walk off we've ever been a part of. If is doesn't, so what, just try to get another one."

"The belief in the dugout and the clubhouse, it could be anyone. We saw three guys come off the bench and have good at bats too."

It was the second time in extra innings the Reds came back from a deficit.

Matt McLain hit a home run with two outs in the 10th to send the game to the 11th inning after the Padres tied the game in the ninth and took a two-run lead in the 10th.

"I was trying to get a pitch to hit," Mclain explained. "It was a fastball down the middle. I just hit it hard. I thought it was too low. It just kind of kept going."

"It says a lot about our character, (the three rookies De la Cruz, Steer and McLain). We're just trying to help our team win. Nothing more than that and nothing less than that. Each and every day, every at bat every pitch. It's a good feeling in the dugout. It's a freak thing.Elly clips his thing. It throws his hand off, whatever. We have Spencer up next. You know he's going to take swings in his zone. He's going to have a good at bat, no matter the outcome."

Fernando Tatis Jr. singled home Rougned Odor, the ghost runner, in the 10th inning. Juan Soto's third hit of the game scored Tatis Jr. from first base to add insurance it came in handy.

Matt McLain tied the game with his seventh home run with two outs in the bottom of the 10th. 

San Diego starter, Seth Lugo, who worked out of the Mets' bullpen the last several years.  Graham Ashcraft, who struggled before he spent 15 days on the injured list, started for the Reds.

Both were sharp.

The Reds had nothing to show for four singles in the first five innings. The Padres were scoreless in five innings on two singles.

Trent Grisham broke the ice with his eighth home run leading off the sixth inning. 

The Reds took advantage of Grisham's error to get the run back. With two outs, Elly De la Cruz flied to left center. Grisham flat out dropped it for a two-base error. Jake Fraley drove him home with a single to center, his 50th RBI of the season.

Ashcraft got the first two outs in the seventh but walked Gary Sanchez, hitting .204 and Matt Carpenter, hitting .180. David Bell brought in Lucas Sims to pitch to Rougned Odor. Sims caught Odor looking at a called third strike.

Ashcraft pitched 6 2/3 innings, his longest outing since his first start of the season in which he pitched seven frames. He allowed one run on three hits.

Brent Honeywell came out of the Padres' bullpen in the seventh. Lugo completed six innings allowing one unearned run on five hits, no walks. He struck out six.

Spencer Steer walked to lead off the inning against Honeywell. The count against Tyler Stephenson went to 3-2. Steer was picked off first but on the 10th pitch of the at bat, Stephenson deposited his sixth home run of the season into the left field stands. Will Benson singled but TJ Friedl fouled off a two-strike bunt attempt for strike three. Benson became the second Reds' base runner to be picked off. This time by Nick Martinez.

Alexis Diaz relieved Sims to start the ninth. He came into the game with 22 saves in 22 attempts. Xander Bogaerts singled. Jake Cronenworth bunted Diaz couldn't throw him out at first base. It was scored a hit. Sanchez flied out to left and the runners moved up. Matt Carpenter hit a sacrifice fly to right to hand Diaz his first blown save. Odor popped out to first to end the inning.

"It was bound to happen at some point," David Bell said of his trusted closer, who had a string of 27 games saved, dating back to last season.

"I made my pitches. I threw strikes. I made all the pitches that I could but they made the at bats and brought the run in," Diaz said. "I always have the confidence in our team that they will come back and win the game. The rookies have changed the team so much."

San Diego brought Josh Hader into the game to start the ninth. Steer walked with two out. Stephenson struck out swinging. 

The Reds went to extra innings for the second straight game. Ian Gibaut came in to pitch the 10th for the Reds. 

Left hander Ray Kerr entered to start the 10th for the Padres. Stephenson was the ghost runner. Luke Maile batted for Benson. He grounded out to third base. Friedl popped up for the second out. Matt McLain tied the game with his seventh home run to straight away centerfield. Jonathan India flied out to left.

Alex Young came on in the 11th inning with Bogaerts on second as the ghost runner.  Gary Sanchez singled to score Bogaarts. 

The Reds gave up their designated hitter, moving De la Cruz to third. 

Drew Carlton took the mound for San Diego in the 11th.  India was on second. De la Cruz doubled to tie the game.

Bell, who grew up in a baseball family, where his grandfather, father and brother played for the Reds. He himself had a 12-year playing career and marvels at how this team has met every challenge.

"I haven't seen it (a team like this). What makes it different I think, it's one thing coming back but when you don't play a perfect game, like getting thrown out at the plate. It can really take the wind out of your sails. It just doesn't. You can't teach that. It is just what our players have become as a team," Bell said.

"There is no other group, I'd rather be around because of that toughness."

Matt Olson Wraps His 25th Home Run Around The Foul Pole In Left To Lift Braves

Matt Olson lifted a two-strike pitch the opposite way just inside the foul pole to lift the Atlanta Braves to a series win over the streaking Reds, 7-6.

The Braves who started the series with an eight-game winning streak of their own are a perfect 6-0 in games that decide a series. 

Still the young Reds fought back three times from three-run deficits to put the tying and winning runs on base to threaten the dominance of the best team in the league.

"You want to give guys every possible shot, coming back right there. It's just over and over to be able to do that against that team. We're after wins but I do know that like playing like that the wins will come. We've shown that and that is the most important thing to continue to play like we have been and trust one and other and trust that the wins will come. Games like that when you lose them are hard to swallow. Because you fight back so hard. Yes you're supposed to do that but honestly, this team does it more than any team I've ever been around. And there are a lot of wins on the other side of that so we have to keep going."

Levi Stoudt made his third appearance for the Reds and second as a starter. Ben Lively went on the disabled list with a strained right pectoral muscle. Stoudt was recalled from Louisville.

The Reds tested Braves starter, Charlie Morton, the 39-year old veteran, in the first inning.

TJ Friedl walked and stole second. He went to third on Spencer Steer's single. Friedl was thrown out at home on a fielder's choice grounder by Elly De la Cruz. The close play was reviewed but the out call stood.

The Braves broke the ice in the third inning. Michael Harris II hit a line drive to the glove side of Jake Fraley in right field, who's diving attempt permitted a lead off triple. Stoudt got Ronald Acuna Jr. to pop up but Ozzie Albies hit a sacrifice fly to right. Stoudt walked Austin Riley and Olson back-to-back. Sean Murphy and Marcell Ozuna singled for two more runs. Eddie Rosario walked but Orlando Arcia lined out to Will Benson in left.

Matt McLain and Steer opened the third with doubles to get one run back. De la Cruz moved Steer to third but Morton pitched out of trouble.

"I was trying to get my pitch to hit," McLain said. "Sometimes I get too swing happy but I was trying to get a pitch in my zone and put a good swing on it. Um I really need to get back to that."

Randy Wynne, at the age of 30, made his Major League derut in the fourth inning. He gave up a double to Acuna which stretched his hitting streak to seven games but he turned in a scoreless fourth.

Tyler Stephenson and Nick Senzel singled off Morton to open the fourth Friedl bunted. He was thrown out but the runners moved up. McLain brought them home with his second double. 

Wynne gave up another double to Acuna one out into the sixth inning. Ian Gibaut took over. He struck out Albies but walked Riley. Olson lifted his 25th home run down the leftfield line to give the Braves a 6-3 lead. 

McLain's fifth home run came off Nick Anderson to eat into the Braves lead. Steer walked but Anderson struck out De la Cruz. Fraley lined to Albies at second. Braves' manager Brian Snitker brought on his lone left handed pitcher AJ Minter to face Joey Votto. Bell made a rate move sending Jonathan India to bat for the Reds' best career hitter. Minter caught India looking at a 3-2 pitch for the third out. 

Buck Farmer walked Albies and hit Riley to start the eighth. Bell made another unusual decision, going to his closer Alexis Diaz, who walked Murphy and Ozuna to force in a run before getting the Reds out of the inning.

"We have a couple guys that were emergency only and we got to that point," Bell said. "Diaz was going to throw the ninth whether were down two or three or four. I felt like, there with the first two guys getting on it was our best chance. I'd rather use him in that situation. We can hold them right there. I just want to give our guys every opportunity to have a shot to come back. It was a tough spot for Alexis to come in. He understood the situation and he was a pitch away from getting out of it. That was the thinking. I had a couple guys not feeling well that have been used a lot so. we did get Lucas up. We did not want to pitch him today. He would have pitched the 10th. And Daniel would have been used for the third day. I just felt it was our best chance to win that game."

The Reds brought the tying run to the plate with two outs in the eighth against Minter. Joe Jimenez gave up McLain's third double to cut the lead one run.

Daniel Duarte entered to start the ninth inning, pitching a 1-2-3 inning.

Raisel Iglesias, who gave up two home runs on Saturday before getting his 11th save faced De la Cruz to lead off the Reds' ninth, needing a run to tie. He struck out De la Cruz for the third time in the game. Fraley, who hit one of the home runs on Saturday. Fraley singled. India went to 3-2 again. He fought off a pitch and dumped a bloop single to send Fraley to third. Newman hit into a 5-4-3 double play to end the game.

Braves Home Runs End Reds Winning Streak At 12 Games

The Reds streak came to an end with a barrage of home runs from the Atlanta Braves, 7-6. 

The Braves used home runs from Travis d'Arnaud, Ozzie Albies, Matt Olson and Marcel Ozuna to stave off another Reds' comeback.

d'Arnaud homered for the second straight day.

Graham Ashcraft came off the Injured List from a calf injury when he was hit by a batted ball in his last start.

Leading off the second inning, d'Arnaud lined Ashcraft's 1-0 pitch into the right field stands for his sixth home run of the season. Albies hit his 18th home run leading off the third inning. Atlanta scored again in the third on a double by Olson and single by Ozuna.

"It took Graham a little while to settle in. The good thing is he is healthy and back in our rotation," David Bell said.

The Reds fought back against Braves' left hander Jared Shuster. TJ Friedl bunted for a base hit and stole second. Matt McLain hit his fourth home run with two outs to make it a a 3-2 game.

Austin Riley followed Albies' two out single and stolen base with an RBI double in the fourth. Olson hit his NL leading 24th home run to put the Braves up 6-2.

"Physically, I felt the best since the beginning of the year," Ashcraft said. "Other than two pitches to Albies and d'Arnaud. The pitch to Olson was well executed it was down well below the zone he just put a good swing on it but I felt all my stuff was working. I was pounding the zone."

 Elly De la Cruz extended his hitting streak to seven games and Spencer Steer hit his team leading 11th home run of the year to bring the Reds within two runs again. 

"It is a resilient group of group," Steer said. "It is the story of our team, taking it to the last out and making it a one-run ballgame. I wish we won 100 in a row but we played some really good baseball the last to weeks. We created a culture and a bond in that clubhouse. We showed we can play with the heavyweights. We're going to keep building on it."

Ozuna hit his 15th home run of the season against Alex Young in the seventh.

Former Reds' closer Raisel Iglesias came on in the ninth. He gave up Jake Fraley's 11th home run. Will Benson followed with his third home run pinch hitting for Kevin Newman but he struck out McLain and Jonathan India to record his 11th save of the season.

The Reds last loss was a 7-4 verdict in St. Louis on June 9.

"It was quite a streak. We did get used to it. That's a good thing. We appreciate what we've been able to accomplish against good teams. As appreciative of the streak as we are, who we are in our clubhouse does not go away. As disappointing as it was today, what we accomplished does not go away," Bell said.

"Right up until the final out we all believed it was going to happen. We know down deep a streak like that is going to end but the work we've done goes forward."

Elly De la Cruz And Joey Votto Keep Reds Sizzling For 12th Straight Win

The Reds and Atlanta Braves were two hot teams when they collided. 

Atlanta won its last eight games and the Reds its last 11. The sixth time in Major League history a pair of teams with streaks of eight or more games.

Elly De la Cruz and Joey Votto were hotter. 

The Reds roared back from a five-run deficit when De la Cruz turned in the first cycle from a Reds player since Eric Davis in 1989 and Votto had his 19th career multi-home run game in the Reds' 11-10 slugfest in their 12th straight win.

"I can't really put it into words right now," De la Cruz. "I'm happy and excited. It is fortunate Eric Davis is one of the legends of this game and in Cincinnati to. Sure enough he let me wear that jersey number 44 and to be the second one since him to do that, is incredible."

Votto and the sellout fans left the game impressed by the spectacle.

"It starts with the style of play," Votto said. "If I were a customer, a paying fan, this is the kind of team I would sit in the stands and watch live. Truly, the television doesn't do it justice. The game is faster, dirtier. This is the most enjoyable version of baseball, I think I've ever seen. I'm hitting sixth on this team, happily. I get to watch the guys in front of me. I'm not in the way. I get to watch these guys in front of me zoom around the bases. It's not just because of the winning streak either. I'd say that if our record was different."

"It is a really enjoyable experience playing with these guys. When I put my baseball fan hat on. It is the version I'd love to show up too. The Braves on the other side have similar players. I told Acuna today, he was my favorite Major League player."

TJ Friedl walked against Ben Heller. He advanced to second on a wild pitch and went to third on Matt McLain's fly to center. Jonathan India singled. De la Cruz completed the cycle with a triple into the right centerfield gap, putting the Reds up by four.

The Braves jumped on Reds' starter, Luke Weaver, right away. Ronald Acuna Jr, Ozzie Albies and Austin Riley all singled for one run. Weaver rallied to get Matt Olson to pop out and struck out Marcell Ozuna but Travis d'Arnaud hit his fifth homer into the right field stands. Weaver walked Eddie Rosario, who went to second on a wild pitch. Orlando Arcia doubled to cap the scoring at five runs.

The Braves starter, AJ Smith-Shawver, a 20-year old started for the Braves.

De la Cruz doubled high off the right center field wall. Jake Fraley launched his 10th home run on a 3-2 pitch to get two of the Reds back in the second inning.

"Elly did it all tonight," Bell said. That double off the wall was one of the hardest balls I've ever seen hit. He showed what he is capable of doing in a big game. It is incredible to do what he did tonight but the best part is he contributed to a big win."

TJ Friedl led off the third inning with a walk then stole second and third. He was 90 feet away when De la Cruz lofted his third home run to cut the Braves lead to 5-4.

David Bell removed Weaver with Michael Harris II on first base and one out. Daniel Duarte entered and picked Harris II off first but Acuna singled for his second hit. Albies struck out.

Votto tied the game with his second home run of the season to straight away center. Smith- Shawver hit Spencer Steer with a pitch and went to second on a wild pitch. After Tyler Stephenson flied to left, Smith-Shawver left the contest. Collin McHugh came in to face Luke Maile, who grounded out to third base. Friedl struck out to keep the game at tied at 5-5.

Matt Olson hit a two-run home run in the fifth off Duarte to put the Braves back in the lead, 7-5. It is Olson's 22nd home run of the season. 

McLain and India were hit by McHugh to open the bottom of the fifth. De la Cruz came through again with a broken bat single. Fraley struck out but Votto hit his second home run of the game into the right field stands to put the Reds ahead, 9-7. It is his 19th career multi-home run game. 

Ben Heller entered for the Braves. He was the victim of De la Cruz triple. 

Ian Gibaut finished a scoreless sixth for Alex Young, who was the winning pitcher. Buck Farmer gave up a single and double with two outs but struck out Orlando Arcia to preserve the four-run lead.

Acuna Jr. hit his 16th home run off Lucas Sims in the eighth. Riley hit his 13th with two outs in the eighth and Olson went back-to-back with his 23rd of the season and second of the game. Olson has 16 multi-home run games. Sims held the lead by striking out three in the inning. 

It was a save situation for Alexis Diaz. He needed three outs to earn his 21st save in 21 chances. Dating back to last season he had saved 25 games in a row. He got a double play after walking Rosario to earn the save.

The Reds matched the 1957 team that won 12 games in a row. Manager David Bell's grandfather was a key member of that team.

"My grandfather told me a lot of stories but that team is like ours," Bell said. "They genuinely like each other. That doesn't always happen. They all did things together."

Bell was a part of a Seattle team that won 116 games and had a winning streak of 15 games.

Jake Fraley Today's Hero To Send Reds To 11th Straight Win

 

Today's hero dujour Jake Fraley hit his ninth home run of the season following Elly De la Cruz bloop double to defeat the Colorado Rockies 5-3 to start a numbers game.

"It is fun when its your turn (to be the hero) but I'd argue that it is just as fun watching other guys do it to. I think every guy in that clubhouse would say the same thing. I feel blessed to be a part of a team like this," Fraley said.

Eleven straight wins, three straight series sweeps and 26 comeback wins are the amazing numbers.

Is there pressure to keep it going?

I don't think it is a challenge," Fraley said. "I think it becomes a challenge if the right mindset isn't in place for us as a team. Because then you start naturally having the pressure that comes with a win streak, how long can we keep this up. That's not the case with those guys in there."

The Reds took the field against the Colorado Rockies, trying to become the first team since 1957 to win 11 games in a row. They won 12 in row that season. The 1940 World Champion Reds won 11 straight games.

"The 11-game win streak is a reminder it isn't easy," said David Bell, his grandfather played on the 1957 team. "It takes everything we have. You think about mentioning a team like that (1957), it is very meaningful to me. I've heard so much about those teams. Being compared to in a small way to a team like that is pretty neat. Personally, it means a lot to me. I've heard so much about my grandfather's teammates and how much they meant to the city."

After 17 2/3 scoreless innings to start his Major League career, Andrew Abbott gave up a home run to leadoff hitter Brenton Doyle to break the streak.

It was bound to happen.

"I didn't feel bad," Abbott said. "Guys are going to score off you. It's bound to happen. The biggest thing for me was how do I respond when it does happen. There were three for me today. I tried to stay composed and tried to give my team, five, six maybe seven innings and we didn't tax the bullpen anymore."

It was Doyle's fifth home run and first leading off a game. It barely left the yard, landing on the roof of the Rockies bullpen. Elehuris Montero hit his first home run in the second inning. Randal Grichuk hit his second home run of the season in the fourth inning to put Colorado up, 3-0.

The Rockies have an ailing pitching staff. They decided to open the game with reliever, Jake Bird, who pitched two scoreless innings.

Karl Kaufman, added to the roster this morning, pitched a scoreless third and fourth but loaded the bases with no outs in the fifth. 

Joey Votto was hit by a pitch. Tyler Stephenson's second hit of the game was a single to left. Will Benson walked on a 3-2 pitch. Rockies manager Bud Black summoned Matt Carasiti to bail them out. Luke Maile grounded a single up the middle to score Votto and Stephenson. TJ Friedl lined a single to right to tie the game and send Maile to third with no outs. Spencer Steer struck out swinging on a 3-2 pitch. Jonathan India took a called third strike with Friedl running. Austin Wynns threw down and Maile appeared to score but India was called for interference and it became an inning ending double play.

Abbott pitched six innings and gave up four hits, including three solo home runs. He didn't walk anyone and struck out 10.

Lucas Sims pitched a scoreless seventh. Ian Gibaut allowed a leadoff single in the eighth but finished a scoreless eighth with two strikeouts.

Buck Farmer spelled Alexis Diaz in the ninth and earned his second save of the season with a scoreless inning.

Reds' pitchers struck out 15

It seams like every move Bell makes works out, rolling the dice pitching Alexis Diaz on fumes and when he saved Diaz, whoever he put in did the job.

"It is not about pushing the right buttons. It is definitely not that. It's about the way the game is being played by those players. It is very inspiring to be around. It is happening in the clubhouse. It's happening on the field. And what's happening in the ballpark, our fans, it's seeing them enjoy the game. It means a lot to us," Bell said.

Even the rookie Abbott had the streak in perspective. Like his string of scoreless innings, this streak will end at some point.

"It's always the expectation to go out to win. We've had a lot of opportunities and just cashed in on most of them," Abbott said.

Reds Win 10th On TJ Friedl Home Run Alexis Diaz Earns 20th Save

 

The youthful Reds put their nine game winning streak on the line against the Colorado Rockies with players taking turns being the hero.

TJ Friedl took his turn as he started the engine with a three-run home run off former Reds' prospect, Noah Davis to carry the Reds to a 8-6, 10th win in a row. Friedl finished with his first four hit night.

"It is a different guy every day. It goes back to the Pittsburgh series when we got swept. A lot of us were pressing to be that guy to hit a home run with runners on base and we were putting added pressure on ourselves. It made a game that's hard even harder. We had a meeting and Luke Maile said it to get to the next guy up mentality. We have a team of guys who are more than capable of producing. Once we got into that mindset. It is having trust in your teammates. You want to get a hit but if you don't, Jon is going to get a hit or Matty is going to get a hit," Friedl said.

The last time the Reds won 10 games in a row. Joey Votto was in the middle of one of his best seasons in 2012. On July 15 Votto that season Votto had a .342 average with 14 home runs and a whopping 36 doubles. The Reds won their sixth game in a row but he was injured on a slide into third base.

Four day later the Reds under Dusty Baker won 10 straight games without Votto. This season Votto returned from shoulder surgery as the team won eight in a row.

"We're very appreciative of the opportunity we have," David Bell said. "We've experienced what that feel like and we want to keep it going. What great crowds we've had the last two nights that means a lot to our team."

Davis committed the cardinal sin of walking Will Benson and number nine hitter Curt Casali with two outs. Friedl hit his fourth of the season after threatening to bunt.

Ben Lively started for the Reds and surrendered Nolan Jones fifth home run of the season. He repeated Davis sin by walking Jones and Ryan McMahon with two outs but he struck out Elias Diaz swinging to end the inning.

Lively completed four innings, allowing two runs on three hits. His four walks in a light rain cost him another inning. Alex Young pitched a scoreless fifth.

Elly De la Cruz hit his second home run of the season into the left field stands in the third. Jake Fraley walked. Spencer Steer doubled to the gap in right center to send Fraley home with the Reds' fifth run.

Harold Castro hit his first home run to bring the Rockies a run closer with two outs in the fourth. He was one of five MLB batters with over 150 at bats and  no home runs. His last home run was on September 24, 2022.

The Reds legs and relief pitcher Peter Lambert, who committed three throwing errors. De la Cruz hit a hard line drive off Lambert's leg. H e flagged it down but threw late and wild. De la Cruz stopped at second but went to third when Lambert threw wild on a pick off attempt. Fraley doubled in De la Cruz. Fraley took off for third as Lambert turned to pick him off. This threw got away too and Fraley scored.

Lambert's next error was a poorly placed pitch to Will Benson, who hit his second home run.

Fernando Cruz and Daniel Duarte pitched scoreless innings but and Casety Legumina gave up a three-run home run to Jorge Alfaro. Jones doubled for his third hit of the game. Diaz walked. With two outs Alfaro hit his first home run of the season.

With one out Jurickson Profar dumped a single to center. Jones doubled for his fourth hit after Profar took second on indifference. McMahon walked to put the tying runs on base. Elias Diaz struck out swinging bringing Mike Moustakas to the plate. Moustakas was released by the Reds in March. The count went to 3-2. Moustakas walked to load the bases. Alfaro struck out.

Alexis Diaz hung on for his 20th save in 20 tries and 25 straight dating back to last season.

Reds Reluctantly Part With Wil Myers

Will Myers is the first victim of the Reds youth movement. The veteran who played for Tampa Bay and San Diego was designated for assignment the day after Joey Votto was returned to active duty after 10 months. 

Myer, a popular player in the Reds' clubhouse and in the league in general, was suffering through a sub par season and injuries that included Covid and a kidney stone. He played in 37 games for the Reds this season but hit a disappointing .189 his career low, with three home runs and 12 RBI.

The Reds signed Myers as a free agent in December, knowing that Nick Senzel and Joey Votto would likely not be ready for the start of the season, the 32-year old, 10-year veteran was counted upon to provide offense and play right field and first base, in Votto's absence.

Recently, Spencer Steer has excelled at first base. Senzel has moved around to play some outfield. Not to mention Elly De la Cruz, Matt McLain and Will Benson coming into their own and earning playing time.

"It was a tough decision. It speaks a lot to how our guys were playing," David Bell said. "Wil has been injured and hasn't played a lot but has a long track record of being a really good player, He's become a big part of our team. He also dedicated himself to our team and what is going on here. We know he can come back and become the player, he can be."

It was not expected this soon but all the youthful prospects would be this productive, this soon.

General manage, Nick Krall, now finds himself in a pennant race with mid-season decisions about whether to add players for this season or maintain and eye on the future.

"Wil's been great. He's very professional and the guys really like him but over the last few weeks we've brought some players up. They've earned the right to play," Krall said. "We thought we have a better team sticking with the guys we've got on this club instead of Wil."

"It wasn't about the money. We thought will would be a contributor coming in and it just didn't happen," Krall said. "I feel bad Wil's a great guy. I wish him the best."

The Reds could trade him within 10 days or he goes on waivers and once cleared becomes a free agent and will be paid all but the MLB minimum should he sign with another team.

"We're in first place we are looking to win," Krall said. 

Krall has been authorized to increase payroll the rest of the year if needed.

 

Joey Votto Comes Back To Lead Reds To Ninth Win In A Row

The Reds returned to Great American Ball Park after winning the last eight games on the nine-game road trip with a new old friend to face the Colorado Rockies.

The young impressive team got a boost from potential Hall of Famer, Joey Votto, who drove in three runs to propel the Reds to a 5-4 win for its ninth straight victory. The crowd was on its feat when Votto appeared for his first at bat in which he lined out to center.

"The crowd reaction was surprising," Votto said, nearly breaking down with emotion. "Not to underestimate them but you don't expect that. I feel the same way toward them. For them to reciprocate means a great deal to me. It was a memorable experience."

David Bell was not surprised.

"It doesn't surprise me. It impresses me."

Votto returned from surgery on his shoulder last August to make his first appearance of the 2023 season. He started at first base and batted sixth in the order. 

"What a great player. He just got himself ready. He's so excited to be part of our team. He has been doing everything to be a part of our team. It meant a lot to our team," Bell said. "He felt a part of this the whole time but now it feels like it is supposed to. He is going to make us better."

Kevin Newman got the Reds off to a fast starting, leading off the bottom of the first with his third home run. The victim Austin Gomber was also clipped by Nick Senzel's fifth home run in the second inning.

Brandon Williamson pitched three scoreless innings then surrendered Elias Diaz' eighth home run in the fourth.

Votto launched his first home run into the right field seats off the left hander Gomber. 

The Reds have been impressive without Votto even before the current streak which last happened when Votto was in his prime in 2012.

"I played a long time and here I'm wearing a helmet and a cape," Votto said. "It's a team thing and it's keeping me young. I was anxious. There was a sense of urgency. I don't want to be the odd person out. Every day there is someone doing something cool to help the team. If you're not doing something, you don't fit in. I just want to fit in."

"I fit in with these guys. Don't get me wrong but this it more about performance that is what I mean about fitting in. We respect each other as people of course but ultimately this is a game where your respect is earned through performance."

Williamson finished five innings but gave up back-to-back singles to start the sixth inning. Buck Farmer came in to face Diaz with runners at first and third.

Diaz singled to right to score Randall Grichuk and sending Ryan McMahon to third with no outs. Jorge Alfaro hit his second double of the game over Spencer Steer's head in left field to tie the game. Both runs were charged to Williamson. Farmer walked Nolan Jones to load the bases. Farmer fell behind Brenton Doyle 3-0 but struck him out. Coco Montes struck out swinging. Mike Moustakas pinch hit for Connor Kaiser, who was making his big league debut. Alex Young, who recorded his first career save on Sunday, was called on to pitch to the former Red. Moustakas walked on a 3-2 pitch to put the Rockies in the lead. Jurickson Profar grounded out to Elly De la Cruz to end the inning. 

Moustakas stayed in to play third and booted Jonathan India's ground ball for an error. De la Cruz hit a ground ball to Moustakas and beat the throw for an infield hit. Rockie manager Bud Black brought Jake Bird in to face Steer, who walked to bring up Votto with the bases loaded and one out. Votto hit a two-run single to put the Reds back in the lead. Jake Fraley hit for Senzel. Fraley struck out and Tyler Stephenson grounded out to Moustakas, who forced Steer at third.

Fernando Cruz came in to pitch a perfect seventh inning.

Lucas Sims took over in the eighth to pitch a scoreless frame.

Alexis Diaz entered to pitch the ninth. Moustakas singled and moved to third on Profar's single. Diaz struck out Grichuk and Ryan McMahon. Diaz earned his 19th save in 19 chances and his 24th straight.

"You have to be really good to pitch out of that situation," Bell said. "At such and early age, it speaks to how much confidence he has. He had a good year last year and he keeps getting better."

The night belonged to Votto.

"It was a long daunting rehab and you have your doubts," Votto said. "When I say that, I mean weeks or months ago doubts. We are in a performance based game. Basketball calls it a make or miss league. Here its a bat or bench league. You have to perform. Obviously I want to perform and I expect to perform. It is intimidating when you have a surgery like that and you're an older player. Tonight was a good experience for me."

Colorado manager Bud Black said," “(Votto)'s a guy who should be applauded for what he's done in this city. He's spent his entire career here, which is a special thing. Joey's been a great player for a decade-plus. It was great to see the fans of Cincinnati recognize that.” --

Reds Comeback Gives Eighth Straight Win And Series Sweep Of The World Champs

The Reds three-run 10th inning rallied in ninth inning to carry the Reds eighth straight win and series sweep over the Houston Astros with a 9-7 verdict. 

Seth Martinez face TJ Friedl with automatic runner, Nick Senzel. Friedl's bunt was fielded by Bregman but his throw was wild, allowing Senzel to score. Friedl collided with Jose Abreu at first preventing the advance to scoring position. Matt McLain flied to right but Friedl's risk paid off as he went to second. Jonathan India was hit by a pitch. Elly De la Cruz singled home Friedl and sent pinch runner Stuart Fairchild to third. He scored on Fraley's ground out.

"I don't know if it was my favorite but it was a great win," David Bell said. "We are playing the game the same way every time. Friedl went to second on a fly that you wouldn't think he would be able to. He got a great read and beat a good throw. And it even starts with Weaver. He gave up five runs but he just kept pitching."

The Reds and starter Luke Weaver  got off to a rocky start against the Houston Astros but the young Cincinnati squad fought back for a 6-6 extra inning win and a series sweep. It was the eighth straight win for the Reds.

Jonathan India homered off Bryan Abreu, a fly that carried out to the right field seats. India's 10th home run of the season was his second in two days. Jake Fraley and Spencer Steer also homered to fuel the comeback.

The last time the Reds won at least eight games in a row was from July 19 - 29, 2012 when Dusty Baker, the current Houston manager led the Reds to an NL Central Division title.

Alex Bregman doubled with one out. Kyle Tucker, Yanier Diaz and Jeremy Pena singled to produce two runs in the first inning.

Fraley, who returned from a swollen wrist hit his eighth home run in the first inning. Ronel Blanco, the Astros starter served it up.

Corey Julks wasted little time lining a Weaver pitch into the Crawford Boxes in left field to get the run back.

Will Benson walked to open the third inning. It was the sixth straight time he reached base, having been on all five times on Saturday. Benson stole second. He moved to third on Kevin Newman's line single to left. TJ Friedl blooped an RBI single to center but Matt McLain hit into a double play. Jonathan India flied out to deep center. 

Bregman shot a pitch to right field in the fourth. Benson couldn't make a diving attempt at a catch. The ball rolled to the wall. Bregman made third easily but India threw the ball into the net behind third. The throwing error allowed Bregman to trot home. Tucker walked and Diaz doubled him home. 

The Reds used hustle and power to tie the game against Blanco. McLain rifled a single to left. Elly De la Cruz hit a one-hop bullet down the first base line that Abreu fielded but De la Cruz running all the way beat Abreu to the bag with a head first dive. Fraley lined a single to right. De la Cruz hustled to third and beat Tucker's throw but Bregman caught Fraley going to second. Steer tied the game with his 10th home run.

Weaver managed to last five innings, giving up 10 hits and two walks that Houston turned into five earned runs. 

Daniel Duarte took over in the sixth. He walked Bregman then retired six straight batters. 

Lucas Sims struck out Jose Altuve and Mauricio Dubon then exhaled when Fraley pulled down Bregman's bid to tie the game at the left field fence.

Ian Gibaut, a Houston native, came on to try for his second save of the season. Gibaut walked Tucker to start the inning but struck out Abreu as Tucker stole second. Diaz singled sharply to left, sending Tucker to third. Chas McCormick singled to tie the game. The Reds walked Jeremy Pena intentionally. Julks hit into an inning ending double play.

Alex Young picked up his first save with a one-run 10th.

Sims, Gibaut and Young saved Alexis Diaz, who has been over worked on this nine-game road trip.

"I told him on Friday, that he would have the rest of the weekend off," Bell said. "I knew he could do it on Friday but we need him for the rest of the season."

Hunter Greene Wins Will Benson Stars Reds Win Seventh Straight To Go Over .500 Mark

Hunter Greene turned in a quality start and Jonathan India and Will Benson provided enough offense for the Reds to win their seventh straight game, 10-3.

The win put the Reds over the .500 mark at 36-35 for the first time since April 5 when they were 3-2.

"I'm thankful. I'm grateful to be helping the team cash in," said Benson, who is battling to stay in the big leagues when Joey Votto and Wil Meyer return. "We're just a bunch of guys who are all aimed at one goal which is to play good baseball."

India got the Reds started against Brandon Bielak in the first inning. Matt McLain reached on Jeremy Pena's first error of the inning. India cracked his ninth home run  of the season over the 366' sign in left field.

"I saw it early in spring training. I knew something special was going to happen this year. Now we're playing with momentum and we're rolling," India said. "We're a very good team. People are starting to realize that. We have a lot more to show though. These are defending champs and we beat pretty bad today. We got em good."

Reds' starter Hunter Greene walked Corey Julks one out into the third inning. Jose Altuve doubled into the right field corner to send Julks to third. Kyle Tucker barely missed a home run, backing Will Benson to the right field wall. Julks scored after the catch.

"Belief is a big part of what's going on in our clubhouse," David Bell said. "We know how important that is. Against a team like this we have to play great. To be able to play with a team like this, takes big plays by a lot of guys. Will is playing with a lot of belief and confidence for sure. It goes a long way. As his confidence grows he's becoming more aggressive."

The Reds retrieved the run when Benson led off the fourth with a triple off the glove of Jake Meyers in center field. Curt Casali drove him home with a safety squeeze bunt.

Benson hit a two-run single in the fifth to increase the lead to 5-1.

"That hit was the biggest hit of the day," Bell said.

Greene allowed Altuve's second double and third hit of the game but stranded runners at second and third in the fifth.

"I had a couple rocky innings to be able to keep the team in the game like that it was really fun. The guys came out swinging," Greene said. "I feel like I can keep making pitches. We play for all nine innings. We embrace the underdog role."

Yainer Diaz hit his fifth home run, a solo shot to right field in the sixth. It was the first Greene allowed in his last four starts.

The Reds got that run back in the seventh. Elly De la Cruz doubled and stole third, scoring as Stephenson poked a single through a drawn in infield.

Benson reached base five times with three hits and two RBI.

Greene turned in the Reds' second quality start of the series with six innings, allowing two runs on five hits and four walks. He struck out three, the lowest of the season next to his one-strike out game in a three-inning outing on April 17.

Ian Gibaut, a Houston native, relieved Greene in the seventh. Altuve hit his third home run of the season. The homer off Gibaut was Altuve's fourth hit of the game. It tied his career high for the 35th time. Craig Biggio had 34 four-hit games for the Astros.

Buck Farmer gave up a single to Jose Abreu but turned in a scoreless eighth.

Kevin Newman added on with a bases loaded, two-run single to push the lead to five runs. McLain contributed a two-run triple. 

The four-run ninth allowed the Reds to spare Alexis Diaz and Lucas Sims with Fernando Cruz taking over to face the bottom of the Astros order in the ninth.

Reds Win Sixth Straight As Andrew Abbott Worked Six Scoreless Innings Reds Even On The Season 35-35

The question this game between the Houston Astros and Reds would JP France or Andrew Abbott blink first.

It was France, who blinked in the Reds' 2-1 win over Houston. Tyler Stephenson hit his fifth home run of the season with one out in the seventh. Will Benson, who replaced Stuart Fairchild, who was scratched with a stiff neck, walked. With two outs Kevin Newman doubled into the left field corner and Benson beat the throw to the plate. Seth Martinez ended the inning by getting Luke Maile to line out to Jeremy Pena at short.

"It's huge especially against this team and what they did last year," Stephenson. "The more times you face a pitcher the more comfortable you feel. He threw a breaking ball that stayed up. It is good to see it go over the fence."

It was the Reds sixth straight win. 

Two rookies traded zeroes early in the game. France started for Houston and retired the first 10 Reds' batters before Matt McLain beat out a ground ball to shortstop. He allowed two singles in the first six innings.

Abbott also allowed an infield hit to short but retired nine of the first 10 batters through three innings. He allowed a two-out single and walk in the fourth but stranded both runners.

Since the mound was moved back to 60' 6" in 1893, Abbott's 17 2/3 scoreless innings through six, is the most by a Reds' pitcher to start his big league career. Wayne Simpson pitched 15 scoreless innings to start his career in 1970.

"He's had three great starts to begin his career," David Bell said. "Not taking anything away from his other starts, but tonight might have been the best, going up against a team with those great right handed hitters. What an outstanding start. It was a big game for us. He did what we needed him to do and more."

Abbott is the first Major League pitcher to pitch five or more innings of shutout baseball in his first three starts.

"That's pretty cool," Abbott said. But I wouldn't be in the position I'm in if the team wasn't playing well behind me. These are the defending champs so we were trying to play with a little edge on us."

The rookie had to face situations with more than one base runner in the fourth and fifth innings.

"I think that's kind of the reliever nature that I have," said Abbott who pitched out of the bullpen in college for three years. "That's kind of still in my head. I understand when guys are on base in the back end of a ballgame. I have to get these guys out, anyway possible. I've had the best of both worlds in my career. I hope to keep it going."

Buck Farmer took over for Abbott to protect the two-run lead. Abbott pitched six scoreless innings with four hits and two walks. He struck out two. Farmer pitched a scoreless seventh and Lucas Sims pitched a 1-2-3 eighth against the heart of the Astros order. 

Alexis Diaz, who has pitched five times in seven games, started the ninth inning trying to go 18-for-18 in save chances which would pass his brother, Edwin, for the longest current streak of 23 saves in a row. 

"It is good for Diaz to experience it. He handled it very well. It is great. It has been a big week for us but we still have to take care of him and I'm prepared to do that."

He allowed a double to Jose Abreu to lead off but a deep fly sent Abreu to third and he scored on a ground out. Diaz walked Chas McCormick. Corey Julks pinch hit for Martin Maldonado. Julks lined out to TJ Friedl in center field to end the game.

"I'm tired a little bit," Diaz said. "It was an inning that I had to battle a lot. My brother is talking to me every day. He knows how the team is doing. He tells me to keep fighting every day. He went through a stretch in 2018 that had to pitch a lot of days consecutively. He told me to stay strong."

Clayton Kershaw In Control Against Young Reds Graham Ashcraft Knocked Out

 

Three time Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw prevented a Reds comeback after the Los Angeles Dodgers salvaged the final game of the three-game series, 6-0.

Kershaw improved to 8-4 on the season and dropped his ERA to 2.95 with seven shut out innings. He scattered five hits and struck out nine, giving him an even 2,900 for his career. He is 100 strikeouts away from becoming the 20th pitcher in MLB history to reach 3,000.

"We've seen Kershaw quite a bit. He had different shapes on his slider. We really didn't have an answer for it. We give him a lot of credit. To find ways to improve at this point in his career is very impressive," David Bell said.

The Dodgers scored first for the third straight game. This time it was the third inning. This time they held the lead after losing two games on Reds' comebacks. The Dodgers did not score after the fourth inning in the entire series.

Graham Ashcraft had two scoreless innings in the book but he hit rookie James Outman to open the inning. Austin Barnes hit a ball off Ashcraft's calf. The pitcher recorded the out but was measurably hobbled. He hit Mookie Betts in front of Freddie Freeman's RBI single to left. One out later Max Muncy walked to load the bases. David Peralta's second hit of the game plated two runs to put the Dodgers ahead, 3-0.

"Graham wasn't feeling it while he was making his pitches," Bell said. "He felt it walking around. I knew he wouldn't be able to go much deeper in the game than we did."

Peralta had four singles in the game.

Fernando Cruz had to answer the call to relieved the hurting Ashcraft. Miguel Vargas flied out to end the inning.

Chris Taylor led off the fourth inning with his 10th home run. Outman walked. Barnes doubled him home. Betts singled in front of Frman's sacrifice fly for a 6-0 lead. 

The Reds put a threat together in the sixth. Matt McLain and Jonathan India extended his hitting streak to seven games with a single to put runners at the corners. Kershaw struck out Elly De la Cruz and Tyler Stephenson around a pop up by Spencer Steer.

Alex Young, Eduardo Salazar and Ian Gibaut combined for five scoreless innings.

Tayler Scott, who was recalled when Noah Syndergaard was put on the injured list, allowed a double by McLain but struck out De la Cruz. He finished with two scoreless innings.

De la Cruz had an infield single but struck out in his last three at bats.

It Was Will Benson's First Career Home Run That Sealed The Reds Win Elly De la Cruz First Home Run Set The Tone

Will Benson, not Elly De la Cruz first major league home run provided the Reds with an 8-6 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Evan Phillips (1-2) gave up an infield single to TJ Hopkins before Benson blasted a Phillips offering into the right field stands.

"Honestly, you can't dream it," Benson said. "I was trying to get ready. When I was in the outfield, I knew my time was coming up to bat. I knew it. I got it clean. You play with raw emotion, play with everything you have. When you succeed it overcomes you."

"The energy is immaculate. I feel like we're always in the game. Our togetherness is apparent. Elly is a special player. To see an athlete like him is freaky."

The game was tied 6-6 after three innings but both offenses went dormant until Benson ended the drought.

Elly De la Cruz pummeled a pitch from Noah Syndergaard 458 feet into the right field stands with a man on for his first career home run. The blow was measured at 114.8 mph off the bat.

"The first thing I thought was that ball's gone," De la Cruz said. "I didn't know where it landed. I was looking at my teammates. They told me it almost left the building."

"This whole team has some type of positive vibe. It is kind of like vibes going into a World Series," De la Cruz said. "We are fighting all the time. We never give up."

Mookie Betts got the Dodgers started with his 16th home run leading off the game against Brandon Williamson. It was the sixth leadoff homer this season and 42nd of his career. Miguel Vargas hit his sixth home run. Smith belted his ninth of the season in the Dodgers' three-run third.

A pair of triples by McLain and De la Cruz sparked a four-run answer to the Dodgers' power surge. Tyler Stephenson's two-run home run tied the game at 6-6.

"It is fun to watch our players play like this," Reds' manager David Bell said. "They can't wait to go out and compete together. You continue to believe more and more what your capable of and as a team."

Syndergaard allowed six runs in three innings, the third straight start in which he allowed six or more runs.

"Noah is going through it," Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts said. "He's been going through it all year. It is not from lack of effort or preparation. It's just not working. There's things with that blister. Their was a finger nail break tonight. He's not going to make excuses. He understands about performance. We're going to sit down with him and try to figure out, obviously we can't continue at this pace of performance. There might be an opportunity to give him a reset to get this taken care of. You give up a lead. Get the lead again and give it up, it takes a toll on the offense. We couldn't overcome it."

Williamson recovered to retire nine batters in a row to last two outs into the sixth. He allowed six runs on eight hits, including three home runs and two walks.

"That is very difficult to do what he did. It probably won the game for us. It was a tough few innings to stay with it," Bell said. "We couldn't have won the game unless he did what he did. Not only to stay in for our bullpen but to keep them scoreless. As far as I'm concerned that's a win in my book."

The Reds stole four bases in the game.

The Dodgers lead the National League with 106 home runs. The Tampa Bay Rays started the day with 105. The Reds have hit 51. They started the day tied with the Washington Nationals for 14th in the National League.

Alexis Diaz struck out two in the ninth to win his second game of the season. He is 2-1.

STAR IS BORN

Andrew Abbott on Monday and Eduardo Salazar on Tuesday won their first career decisions.  Brandon Williamson started in an attempt to win his first for the Reds in the third straight game.

Elly De la Cruz made his first career start at shortstop. He was 1-for-3 with two walks in his Tuesday night debut, starting at third base.

Jonny DeLuca, the Dodgers' 25th round selection in the 2019 draft debuted in center field against Cincinnati. He was 0-for-2 with a walk. RHP Nick Robertson struck out De la Cruz, the first big league batter he faced in his debut in the fifth inning. He pitched two scoreless innings.

TRAINER'S ROOM

Dodgers: RHP Daniel Hudson pitched in Arizona on Tuesday. He is a few weeks out according to Dave Roberts. OF Trayce Thompson will be out "north of 30 days" with an grade two or grade three oblique strain. He is rehabbing in Arizona. Miguel Rojas left the game with neck tightness.

Reds: OF Jake Fraley was scratched from the starting lineup with swelling in his right forearm. He was hit by a pitch in the ninth inning on Tuesday. OF Friedl took live batting practice today. He could be activated on Saturday.

UP NEXT

Reds' RHP Graham Ashcraft (3-4, 6.64) will face LHP Clayton Kershaw (7-4, 3.25) Thursday afternoon at 12:35 pm.

Reds Rally To Celebrate Elly De la Cruz Debut

 

The Los Angeles Dodgers led the Reds by five runs but the young Reds battled back to out slugged the home team, walked away with a 9-8 win on a bases loaded single by Matt McLain.

"If I didn't do it he was going to do it or Jon was going to do it behind me. It is really exciting. It is fun looking in the future but we're here now and we're here to win. It's a good feeling," McLain said.

The Reds broke out it's prized prospect in Elly De la Cruz. The 21-year old walked in his first at bat and scored. He doubled for his first Major League hit off Tony Gonsolin, who came into the game with a 1.77 ERA and a 3-1 record.

"He (De la Cruz) absolutely met the moment," David Bell said. "He knew he was the big focus today but you would have never known it being around him. He was relaxed but played with passion and intensity. They pitched him tough. He had good at bats all night."

Luke Weaver started for the Reds and had a tough first inning. Mookie Betts hit a one hopper over the third base bag that De la Cruz got a glove on but couldn't hold it. Betts got credit for an infield hit. Freddie Freeman walked. Will Smith struck out but Max Muncy doubled to drive in the Dodgers first run. J.D. Martinez hit a sacrifice fly to right. David Peralta singled to score Muncy.

The Reds got them all back off Gonsolin.

"They are just playing so hard," Bell said. "They want it so bad for each other. The key was way back in the first inning bouncing back after we were down three runs. That showed a lot right there. That kept us in the game. Even when we got down 8-3 it gave us the confidence to keep playing and see what happens."

Jake Fraley and McLain singled. Jonathan India flied out. De la Cruz walked in his first plate appearance. Spencer Steer earned an RBI when he was hit by a pitch. Tyler Stephenson tied the game with a long single.

De la Cruz doubled off Gonsolin one out into the third inning. Steer walked but Stephenson struck out and Kevin Newman lined out to center.

"It was very exciting," De la Cruz said. "I was very excited about that first hit. I felt really good at the plate. It is really special to hear the fans chanting your name. Of course I heard the crowd."

The favorite part of his day?

"The walk off," De la Cruz said.

Weaver retired seven batters in a row before Martinez hit his 15th home run to lead off the fourth. Jason Heyward and Miguel Rojas singled. Betts walked to load the bases. David Bell brought in left hander Alex Young to face Freeman. Young got ahead 0-2 but Freeman unloaded his 11th home run. It was his fifth career grand slam and second of the season.

Complicating the uphill climb was the dominance that the Dodgers held over the Reds the last five seasons. Los Angeles won all seven game against the Reds last season and nine straight, dating back to September 2021. These young Reds didn't know that nor did they care.

"That's who we are. We have to play nine innings if we want to win and that's what we're going to do," McLain said.

India echoed the sentiment.

"This win today is who we are," India said. "We have to keep it going. We have to stay present tomorrow and win every inning. I told people on deck. He's going to win the game. The crowd was amazing. Elly is making his debut and brought the whole crowd with him and he had a great night at the plate."

Bell was ejected by home plate umpire Carlos Torres for arguing a pitch call. It was his fourth ejection of the year and 24th in his career.

India singled and De la Cruz walked for the second time. India scored on Muncy's throwing error at third on a ground ball by Stephenson.

Young was also ejected by Torres.

The Reds got another run in the sixth against Yency Almonte. Stuart Fairchild walked but Luke Maile hit into a double play. Fraley and McLain singled. Fraley took third and drew a throw that got away from Muncy. India hit a slow roller to third for an RBI infield hit. De la Cruz came to the plate to chants of his name but he grounded out to Miguel Vargas at second.

The Reds greeted Brusdar Graterol with singles by Steer and Stephenson. Newman hit into a 3-6-1 double play. Fairchild beat out a ground ball into the hole at shortstop to get the Reds within two runs. Will Benson pinch hit for Maile and lined a single off the wall in right. 

Fernando Cruz held the Dodgers for 1 2/3 innings. Ian Gibaut pitched a scoreless eighth. Eduardo Salazar pitched a perfect ninth to earn his first big league win.

The Reds started a rally in the bottom of the ninth against Caleb Ferguson. Steer walked on a 3-2 pitch checked swing. Stephenson rolled his third hit of the game into right field putting runners at the corner with no outs. TJ Hopkins ran for Stephenson. Newman fouled out for the first out. Fairchild worked the count to 3-2. He walked to load the bases. Curt Casali came to bat and worked a 3-2 count. He walked to force in the seventh run and bring Fraley at the top of the order. The Reds tied the game when Fraley was hit by a pitch. Shelby Miller was summoned by Dodger manager Dave Roberts. McLain hit an 0-1 pitch over Jason Hayward's head in center for the walk off win.

"The infield is in, one out. I'm looking for something over the middle of the plate to get in in the air. When I hit it I thought that is enough to score him," McLain said.

Elly De la Cruz Deemed Ready Moves Directly To The Middle Of The Reds Lineup

 

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Elly De la Cruz always knew he was ready for the Major Leagues. He just had to wait until the Reds reached the same conclusion.

"I knew this day was going to come. I was enjoying the moment," De la Cruz said through interpreter Jorge Morillo. "I always knew that I was ready but it was up to personnel to make the decision for me."

The 21-year old is a Red. The news Reds fans have waited for became official at 1:08 as the team announced the promotion of its top prospect.

The Dominican Republic native has dominated Triple A this season, hitting over .300 most of the year with tremendous power.

He was hitting .298 with 12 home runs  and 36 RBI at Louisville. He also stole 11 bases.

The metrics on his talents have raised excitement and expectations.

His talents will be on display at Great American Ball Park as the Reds host the Los Angeles Dodgers in a three-game series.

There were things he needed to work on between spring training and today.

"For me it has always been plate discipline, swinging at pitches that I liked and not swinging at the pitches that were not a strike," said De la Cruz, who will wear number 44. "For me I finally saw they were throwing me pitches that I was not going to make good contact on. So I decided not to swing until I saw a pitch that I liked."

He will start at third base and bat cleanup in his Reds’ debut tonight. He is taking the roster spot of Nick Senzel, who was placed on the 10-day IL with a sore knee.

He prefers shortstop but is fine just playing.

"We know what kind of player Elly is. We think its a fit," David Bell said. "There is comfort in Elly's ability. Just like any young player he has things to work on. He is going to continue to get better. He's as ready as he can be and there is something to be said for trusting these guys."

Elly de la Cruz Promoted Reds Top Prospect Arrives

 

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Ely de la Cruz is a Red. The news Reds fans have waited for became official at 1:08 as the team announced the promotion of its top prospect.

The Dominican Republic native has dominated Triple A this season, hitting over .300 most of the year with tremendous power.

He was hitting .298 with 12 home runs at Louisville.

The metrics on his talents have raised excitement and expectations.

His talents will be on display at Great American Ball Park as the Reds host the Los Angeles Dodgers in a three-game series.

He will start at third base and bat cleanup in his Reds’ debut tonight. He is taking the roster spot of Nick Senzel, who was placed on the 10-day IL with a sore knee.

Andrew Abbott Shuts Down First Place Brewers In Major League Debut Avoiding Sweep

 

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Andrew Abbott became the latest Reds' rookie starter and showed why the Reds spent the second pick of 2021 on him. Abbott shut down the Milwaukee Brewers in a 2-0 win that helped the Reds avoid a sweep at the hands of NL Central leaders.

Former Atlanta Braves ace Julio Teheran was the Milwaukee starter. Stuart Fairchild led off the third inning with his second home run of the season. It was the second run alloed by Teheran in 13 innings since joining the Brewers' staff on May 25.

A struggling Tyler Stephenson hit his third home run of the season two outs into the fourth inning. The homer broke an 0-for-11 slump for Stephenson. 

Abbott walked four and allowed one hit, a double to UC grad, Joey Wiemer in six scoreless innings. The left handed rookie walked Brian Anderson and Luis Urias to open the second inning but retired 10 batters in a row. He issued a leadoff walk to Andruw Monasterio to start the sixth. After a mound visit by catcher Luke Maile, Abbott struck out William Contreras and Christian Yelich, who was his first big league victim. 

"Maile just said, hey calm down. Your stuff is really looking good," Abbott said. "If you try to get it over the plate, you're going to get guys out because it is hard to hit too. Just try to get ahead. I took that advice from a veteran."

The Brewers were trying to make Abbott work and were successful in driving up his pitch count.

""We did a nice job in the first inning making him work," Brewers' manager Craig Counsell said. "We did a nice job in the second inning making him work. The two strikeouts in the second inning were big and he was efficient after that. We didn't do enough to put more pressure on him. We didn't square enough balls to get anything done."

Buck Farmer relieved Abbott to start the seventh. He allowed Wiemer's second double. Lucas Sims allowed an infield single in a scoreless eighth.

Alexis Diaz faced the heart of the Brewers order to notch his 14th save in as many tries, striking out the side.

Brewers Early Scoring Leads To Third Straight Win Over Reds

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Rookie Andrus Monasterio continued his early success with a three-run home run for the Milwaukee Brewers. Adrian Houser made it stand up to carry the Brewers to a 5-1 win.

Monasterio ended his first week of the season with a .412 average and made a game-saving play in the Friday night season opener.

Ben Lively has been pitching well since his long awaited return to the Major Leagues but appeared rusty in the first inning against the Milwaukee Brewers. He walked Owen Miller and Jon Singleton before rookie Monasterio lifted a high fly to center field. Will Benson, playing center for the first time, was turned around and didn't get to the fence in time to make a leaping catch. The ball hit on top of the fence. At 6'5" Benson, a gifted athlete, was capable of catching the ball. 

"I didn't realize his home run was going to go that far. I got a good bead on it and I said whoa but I wasn't close," Benson said.

It was Monasterio's first career home run.

Monasterio left the game after the third inning. Benson, who singled for the Reds' first hit, was caught off second on a pickoff attempt. Benson inadvertently hit Monasterio in the face. Mike Brosseau hit for the rookie, leading off the fourth. 

Benson was originally ruled out on the play but a challenge by the Reds overturned the call.

"I was trying to get back," Benson said. "I did a little swim move. Honestly, I didn't even know I hit him in the face until after the fact. I didn't know I hit anything. I was concentrating on getting my other hand in. I grew up playing with him in Double A. He was with the Indians at the time. We have some history."

Victor Caratini touched Lively for his third home run, leading off the fifth inning. Singles by Joey Wiemer and Miller with a walk to Christian Yelich in between plated the Brewers' fifth run.

Milwaukee starter, Adrian Houser, retired the first seven Reds' batters before Benson's single. Matt McLain doubled to lead off the fourth for the Reds. India reached on an infield hit. It was originally ruled a throwing error on Brosseau but the scoring was changed to a hit.

Fraley put the Reds on the scoreboard, leading off the seventh with his seventh home run and second in as many games.

"Houser was tough on our right handers," Bell said. "He used his sinker heavily against our right handed hitters to get ground balls. That's really his game."

Lively retired the last nine batters he faced. He saved the bullpen by pitching seven innings. He allowed five runs on six hits and three walks. He fanned five.

"I had no slider," Lively said. "I was falling behind. It was one of those days. I'm going to fight, no matter what. That's why I throw a bunch of pitches. I have a chance to stay in the game with all of them. If one is bad, I can flip the script with another one."

"Really it was just uncharacteristic with the walks," Bell said. "If anything that was it. The rest of the innings he actually pitched well, got us into the eighth inning for our bullpen. All that was good but the walks led to their runs today."