Kevin Newman had a big night with four hits, including a crucial two-run single in the ninth inning, leading the Arizona Diamondbacks to a 6-5 win over the struggling Cincinnati Reds on Monday.
Newman, who had already notched two doubles and a single earlier in the game, came through in the clutch in the ninth against Alexis Diaz. With the bases loaded due to a hit batsman and two walks, Newman hit a shallow pitch to right field, bringing home Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Gabriel Moreno.
“I just got lucky with that one, placed it well, and managed to score two runs,” said Newman, who has been given more playing time this season due to injuries to regular shortstop Geraldo Perdomo and top prospect Jordan Lawlar.
He explained his strategy, saying, “I’m just focusing on hitting the ball up the middle and adjusting to off-speed pitches.”
Justin Martinez, the fifth pitcher for Arizona in the game, secured his first major league win with a scoreless ninth inning.
The Reds, who have been struggling lately with 11 losses in their last 12 games, including a recent three-game sweep by the Diamondbacks in Cincinnati, fought hard but fell short.
“We battled back and put ourselves in a good position to win the game,” said Reds manager David Bell. “Alexis has been solid for us in many situations. Sometimes, these games just don’t go our way.”
