CINCINNATI – Spencer Steer’s three-run homer late in Tuesday’s game propelled the Cincinnati Reds to a 5-1 win against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field, breaking a 1-1 tie and energizing the Reds’ offense. This victory brings the Reds to a season-high six games above .500 and evens the season series between the two teams at 4-4.
The Reds demonstrated resilience once again, responding to early pressure from the Cubs and capitalizing on key moments. Steer’s contribution was pivotal in swinging momentum in Cincinnati’s favor and securing the win.
Strong Starting Pitching by Zack Littell in Reds Debut
Zack Littell, the Reds’ latest addition acquired shortly before the trade deadline, made an impressive debut on the mound Tuesday night. Littell pitched seven innings, allowing just one earned run on three hits while striking out eight Chicago hitters. His command was solid as he threw 63 strikes out of 92 pitches, limiting walks to two.
By pitching deep into the game, Littell eased the burden on the Reds bullpen, which had been stretched thin over the previous two games. This performance gives Cincinnati hope that their trade deadline acquisition will strengthen their pitching staff down the stretch.
Spencer Steer’s Offensive Resurgence
After a slow start to the season, Spencer Steer has regained his form and became a key offensive weapon for the Reds. He drove in four runs Tuesday night, starting with an RBI single in the fifth inning to give Cincinnati an early lead. Steer then smashed a go-ahead three-run homer in the seventh inning that extended the Reds’ advantage to 4-1.
His power display has elevated his season totals to 13 home runs and 50 RBIs, backed by a .239 batting average and a .699 OPS. Steer’s timely hitting has been crucial in helping the Reds climb in the highly competitive National League Wild Card race.
Additional Highlights and Game Notes
Reds third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes, another trade deadline acquisition, made an outstanding bare-handed play for the first out in the seventh inning, showcasing his defensive skills. On the opposing side, Cubs left-handed starter Shota Imanaga pitched well, delivering 6 1/3 innings with one earned run allowed, three hits, and seven strikeouts.
Miguel Andujar, the third player acquired at the trade deadline, added two hits to the Reds’ offensive efforts. The Cubs’ only run came from a solo home run by third baseman Mike Shaw in the fifth inning. Cincinnati’s lineup went 3-for-5 with runners in scoring position while leaving just four men on base, a contrast to the Cubs’ 0-for-6 performance and five runners left on base.
To cap the scoring, Reds third baseman Santiago Espinal contributed a sacrifice fly in the seventh inning, driving in the fifth run to finalize the 5-1 win.
Looking Ahead: Series Finale at Wrigley Field
The Reds have an opportunity to complete a series sweep against Chicago in Wednesday’s afternoon finale at Wrigley Field. Starting for Cincinnati will be All-Star left-hander Andrew Abbott, who boasts an impressive 8-1 record and a 2.15 ERA. He will face the Cubs’ right-hander, who holds a 5-3 record with a 3.42 ERA. The game is scheduled for 2:20 p.m. Eastern on FanDuel Sports Network Cincinnati and 700WLW.
This series represents a vital moment for the Reds as they look to gain ground in the National League Wild Card race and build momentum during a competitive stretch of the season.
Implications and Expectations for the Reds Moving Forward
Tuesday night’s win, highlighted by Spencer Steer’s heroics and Zack Littell’s solid pitching debut, reflects the Reds’ determination to compete despite challenges this season. The recent trade deadline acquisitions, including Ke’Bryan Hayes and Miguel Andujar, have contributed to improving both offense and defense.
If Cincinnati can maintain this level of performance, especially with strong starting pitching and timely hitting, they have an encouraging chance to make a deeper push in the playoffs. The series finale at Wrigley Field will provide another test to assess the team’s offensive depth and rotation consistency as the season advances.