Spencer Steer and Will Benson hit home runs, and Hunter Greene pitched six innings, allowing only one run. The Cincinnati Reds handed the Los Angeles Dodgers their fourth consecutive loss with a 3-1 victory on Saturday night, securing the weekend series.
After winning a tough game against the Dodgers 9-6 on Friday, the Reds capitalized on key hits and solid relief pitching to secure their first series win in over a month.
“We know we’ve been struggling with it, but at the same time we’ve remained confident, and we take the field every day believing in what we’re capable of doing,” said Cincinnati manager David Bell.
“But the results obviously matter, you know, and it’s important to have what you’re working toward show up and get that feeling of winning. And that can go a long way.”
Greene (3-2) gave up five hits and struck out five batters in his six innings.
The Reds received scoreless relief innings from Fernando Cruz, Sam Moll, and closer Alexis Diaz, who retired the Dodgers in order in the ninth inning for his ninth save.
After Steer’s solo home run in the first inning, Greene faced a tough situation in the second inning. Despite loading the bases with no outs, he allowed only one run as Jason Heyward grounded into a double play, and Kiké Hernández grounded out.
“I think it was important to the team to keep the momentum on our side,” said Greene about escaping the 32-pitch inning.
With two outs in the second inning, Benson hit a 411-foot home run into the upper deck in left field, giving the Reds a 2-1 lead. Elly De La Cruz added another run with a single in the sixth inning.
In the sixth inning, the Dodgers threatened again with Shohei Ohtani hitting a one-out triple, but Greene managed to retire Freddie Freeman and Will Smith on flyouts to strand Ohtani at third base. Ohtani struck out in his other three plate appearances.
