CINCINNATI (AP) – Jorge Soler hit a grand slam during a five-run eighth inning, leading the Los Angeles Angels to a decisive 10-2 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Friday night.
This win allowed the Angels to break a seven-game losing streak at Great American Ball Park.
Starting pitcher Jack Kochanowicz (2-0) delivered a strong performance, allowing only one run and two hits over seven innings. The Angels’ offensive showcase included additional homers from Zach Neto and Josh Lowe, contributing to their sixth consecutive season of reaching a .500 record or better after 14 games.
Angels’ Offensive Highlights
Soler also contributed a two-out double in the third inning, scoring on an infield single by Yoan Moncada, which established a 2-0 lead for the Angels. Neto’s fifth home run of the season extended the lead to 4-0, and Josh Lowe, who had struggled with a .091 batting average prior to the game, homered over the left-field wall in the sixth inning, making it 5-1.
Reds’ Struggles and Notable Performances
Cincinnati’s Chase Burns (1-1) struggled on the mound, giving up five earned runs, seven hits, and four walks over 5 1/3 innings. Despite entering the game leading all rookies with 16 hits and eight extra-base hits, Sal Stewart went 0 for 3 against the Angels, failing to add to his impressive tally.
Eugenio Suárez provided the Reds with their only hit through four innings and added another single in the sixth. Elly De La Cruz managed to hit his fourth home run of the season in the ninth inning, but it was not enough to change the outcome of the game.
Historical Context
This victory marked the Angels’ first win in Cincinnati since April 1, 2013, which coincided with the first interleague Opening Day game in MLB history. The Angels’ consistent performance over the years has seen them maintain a .500 or better record for six out of the last nine seasons.
Upcoming Matchup
Looking ahead, the Angels will send right-handed pitcher George Klassen (0-0, 6.75 ERA) to the mound against Cincinnati’s left-handed pitcher Brandon Williamson (1-1, 4.76 ERA). Klassen previously took a no-decision in his major league debut on April 5, while Williamson secured his first major league victory on April 6.