Reds 11 - Diamondbacks 5 (8/22/2026): Bleday's 4 Hits, 3 RBIs Shine

The Cincinnati Reds unleashed an offensive assault on the Arizona Diamondbacks, resulting in an 11-5 victory at Chase Field. The win improved the Reds' season record to 61-68, although they remain in fifth place in the NL Central division. The Diamondbacks, meanwhile, dropped to 68-61 but continue to hold the third spot in the NL West.

The game took place under clear skies with a temperature of 100 degrees, providing a challenging environment for players. Despite the sweltering heat, the Reds' bats were on fire, accumulating 16 hits in total. Elly De La Cruz was instrumental in this offensive showing, collecting four hits and scoring four runs.

Reds' Offensive Onslaught

Elly De La Cruz wasn't the only standout performer for the Reds. J.J. Bleday also had a day to remember, with four hits, including a triple and a home run, driving in three runs. The Reds' offense was relentless, scoring in seven of the nine innings.

Tyler Stephenson contributed significantly with a double, driving in three runs. Matt McLain and Hunter Rodríguez also homered, underscoring the Reds' power at the plate. The balanced and deep batting lineup proved too much for the Diamondbacks' pitching staff to handle.

Diamondbacks' Pitching Struggles

Michael Soroka started on the mound for the Diamondbacks but was unable to stifle the Reds' offense. Soroka lasted just over three innings, conceding six runs on six hits, raising his ERA to 2.93. His early exit put the Diamondbacks on the back foot, and they never quite recovered.

Following Soroka's struggles, Zach Littell was tasked with damage control. Littell pitched three and two-thirds innings, allowing four more runs, including three home runs. Despite Kyle Ginkel's scoreless ninth inning, the damage had already been done.

Diamondbacks' Bright Spots

Offensively, the Diamondbacks had a few bright spots despite the loss. Nolan Arenado was a catalyst for Arizona, scoring three runs and hitting a solo home run. Tim Tawa also contributed, with two hits and a two-run homer.

Lars Nootbaar and Ryan Waldschmidt each drove in a run, but the team ultimately couldn't keep up with Cincinnati's offensive fireworks. The Diamondbacks managed ten hits, but their pitching woes overshadowed these efforts.

Rhett Lowder earned the win for the Reds, pitching six innings and allowing three earned runs. Although Lowder gave up two home runs, he limited the Diamondbacks' scoring opportunities, improving his record to 4-8.

Lucas Mey, Tony Santillan, and Tejay Antone followed Lowder, combining for three innings of relief work. The trio gave up just one run, with Antone finishing off the game effectively.

As both teams look ahead, the Reds are gearing up for another matchup against the Diamondbacks at Chase Field. The Diamondbacks will aim to bounce back, leveraging their home-field advantage to regain momentum.

The Reds, managed by Terry Francona, are seeking to build on this victory as they navigate a challenging road stretch. Cincinnati will head to Oracle Park to face the San Francisco Giants following their series in Arizona.

For the Diamondbacks, managed by Torey Lovullo, a home series against the Chicago Cubs is on the horizon. Arizona hopes to capitalize on their strong home record to gain traction in the competitive NL West.