The Cincinnati Reds' offense exploded on Wednesday night, powered by a historic performance from young star Sal Stewart in an 8-3 victory over the San Francisco Giants. Stewart announced his arrival with authority, crushing a pair of three-run homers for a career-high six RBIs.
His power display wasn't just impressive; it was record-setting. At 22 years old, Stewart now has 12 career home runs, the most by any Reds hitter through their first 36 games since Aristides Aquino's torrid start in 2018-19. He also became the second-youngest Red ever to drive in six runs in a game, trailing only teammate Elly De La Cruz, who achieved the feat last year.
Stewart set the tone early, clearing the bases with a three-run shot to right-center in the first inning. The very next batter, Eugenio Suarez, followed with a solo blast, his 192nd as a Red, moving him up the franchise's all-time home run list. After the Giants clawed back two runs, Stewart delivered the knockout punch in the third inning. With two outs and two on, he launched his second three-run homer of the night, securing his first career multi-homer game and giving the Reds a commanding 7-2 lead.
The fireworks continued as Elly De La Cruz added a mammoth 442-foot solo shot to center field in the fourth inning, showcasing the dynamic young core that has Cincinnati fans excited. On the mound, rookie Rhett Lowder provided stability, earning the win with 6 2/3 innings of three-run ball.
The Reds will look to carry this offensive momentum into the series finale Thursday, sending Chase Burns to the mound against the Giants' Landen Roupp.
