After splitting the first two matchups of their three-game series against the Baltimore Orioles, the Cincinnati Reds closed things out in a big way in Sunday’s finale.
The Reds exploded for a 24-2 victory over the Orioles to improve to 11-11 this season. Star slugger Elly De La Cruz hit a solo home run that kicked off a seven-run third inning.
Fans on social media were impressed by Cincinnati’s blowout victory against Baltimore:
In addition to De La Cruz making his presence felt, 10 out of 11 batters registered at least one hit for the Reds, and they got major production from the bottom of the lineup.
Catcher Austin Wynns, who is getting playing time with Tyler Stephenson on the injured list, went 6-for-7 from the No. 9 spot with a three-run home run, six RBI and two runs.
Third baseman Noelvi Marte, who was recalled on Thursday, was just as impressive in the No. 8 spot, going 5-for-7 with a grand slam, seven RBI and three runs.
Wynns and Marte are now the first Reds teammates to have six or more RBI in the same game since 1920.
While Cincinnati’s hitters garnered most of the attention for Sunday’s offensive explosion, five pitchers combined to keep the Orioles at bay in a bullpen game. Brent Suter and Randy Wynne pitched three innings apiece in the victory, with the latter earning his first career save.
After starting the year with seven losses in their first 10 games, the Reds appear to have found the right formula for success. But they will need to be more consistent if they are to earn their first trip to the playoffs since 2020.
Cincinnati will try to stay hot when it meets the Miami Marlins (9-12) in Game 1 of their three-game series on Monday.
