CINCINNATI (AP) – The Cincinnati Reds triumphed over the St. Louis Cardinals 7-6 in 11 innings on Saturday, with Spencer Steer scoring the decisive run after a headfirst slide on a one-hopper from Blake Dunn.
This victory allowed the Reds to split their day-night doubleheader.
Elly De La Cruz contributed significantly to the win by hitting a three-run homer, while Nathaniel Lowe added a two-run shot, establishing a 5-1 lead for Cincinnati by the fifth inning. However, the Cardinals rallied, tying the game at 6-all in the ninth inning thanks to a two-out RBI single from Jordan Walker.
Key Moments in the Game
In the 11th inning, Steer, serving as the automatic runner, advanced to third base following a sacrifice bunt by P.J. Higgins. A subsequent walk to Dane Myers set the stage for Dunn, who sent a one-hopper up the middle.
Masyn Winn, the shortstop, made a remarkable play with a lunging stop and a spinning throw to the plate. Despite catcher Yohel Pozo’s attempt to tag Steer, the replay review confirmed that Steer was safe at home, granting Dunn an RBI on a fielder’s choice.
Pitching Performances
Pierce Johnson (2-1) secured the win for the Reds after pitching two perfect innings. This victory came after Tony Santillan allowed the Cardinals to tie the game with his third blown save of the season.
Riley O’Brien (3-2) took the loss for the Cardinals, despite not allowing a hit during his four outs on the mound.
Game Context and Upcoming Matchup
This win marked the Reds’ first victory in a game not started by Chase Burns or Andrew Abbott since April 25. They currently hold a 2-10 record in division play.
Looking ahead, the Cardinals will have LHP Matthew Liberatore (2-2, 4.70 ERA) facing RHP Brady Singer (2-4, 6.26) in the series finale on Sunday.