After a rough start to May, the Cincinnati Reds have rediscovered their winning formula—and it starts on the mound. Following Saturday's streak-busting win over the Houston Astros, the Reds rode another stellar pitching performance to a series-clinching victory on Sunday, improving to 22-19 on the season.
This time, it was 2025 All-Star Andrew Abbott who stole the show. The left-hander delivered his best outing since Opening Day, firing six innings of scoreless ball on just 85 efficient pitches. Abbott allowed only three hits and one walk while striking out five, lowering his season ERA to 4.47 and looking every bit like the ace the Reds need him to be. His performance earned him today's Joe Nuxhall Memorial Honorary Star of the Game honors.
The bullpen was equally dominant, with Tejay Antone, Sam Moll, and Graham Ashcraft combining for three perfect innings—no hits, no walks, and five strikeouts. It was exactly the kind of shutdown relief that championship-caliber teams rely on.
Offensively, the Reds showed they can win in multiple ways. Manager Terry Francona shuffled the lineup, moving Spencer Steer to the #2 spot, and the move paid off immediately. Steer homered, while leadoff man Will Benson reached base twice. Elly De La Cruz continued his electric play with three hits and a stolen base. JJ Bleday stayed red-hot, tripling in two runs while also drawing two walks, stealing a base, and scoring. Blake Dunn, getting a rare start against a right-handed pitcher, doubled and walked. In total, the Reds pounded out nine hits, drew five walks, and added a hit-by-pitch for Benson—a much-needed offensive explosion.
Matt McLain, batting eighth for the second straight game, walked twice—including one that drove in a run. While the walks are encouraging, the Reds would love to see him start squaring up the ball again.
For the third time this season, the Reds enjoy a day off after a home game with their next contest also at Great American Ball Park. It's a welcome break without the hassle of travel. Next up: the Washington Nationals come to town on Tuesday, with Brady Singer taking the mound. After a week to forget, the Reds are back on track—and looking like a team ready to make some noise.