The Cincinnati Reds put an end to the Philadelphia Phillies’ seven-game winning streak with an 8-1 triumph on Tuesday night. Elly De La Cruz’s two-run home run in the fifth inning and Christian Encarnacion-Strand’s impressive 3-for-4 performance with two RBIs were instrumental in the Reds’ victory.
Cincinnati’s Santiago Espinal also contributed with three hits, including a solo homer in the eighth inning. Fernando Cruz (1-1) pitched 2/3 of an inning in relief, securing the win for the Reds.
The Phillies’ win streak was the fourth-longest in franchise history for the month of April. They last won eight straight games in April in 1953. However, despite the absence of Bryce Harper, who is expected to return on Thursday, the Phillies were unable to extend their winning streak.
J.T. Realmuto and Alec Bohm hit back-to-back doubles in the first inning to give the Phillies their only run of the game. Philadelphia’s five hits on Tuesday matched their season low.
The Phillies’ starting pitcher, Christopher Sánchez (1-3), lasted only three innings, allowing five runs, one of which was earned. The Phillies’ defense also committed three errors, contributing to Cincinnati’s victory.
Andrew Abbott started the game for the Reds and held the Phillies to two hits through 4 1/3 innings. Abbott and Cruz combined to end a Phillies’ threat in the fifth inning with the bases loaded and no outs.
De La Cruz’s seventh home run of the season in the fifth inning extended Cincinnati’s lead to 7-1. He also stole his 12th base of the season, tying him for the league lead.
The Reds’ bullpen continued to impress, with Sam Moll pitching a scoreless ninth inning. The Reds will face the Phillies again on Wednesday, with Nick Lodolo (2-0, 0.75 ERA) taking the mound for Cincinnati and Spencer Turnbull (2-0, 1.23 ERA) starting for Philadelphia.
