Reds 6 - Dodgers 2 (9/16/2026): De La Cruz Shines With Homer

The Cincinnati Reds secured a decisive 6-2 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers at Great American Ball Park. With this win, the Reds improved their record to 70-81, maintaining their position in 5th place in the NL Central. The Dodgers, who lead the NL West, saw their record drop to 92-59.

Reds' Offensive Prowess

The Reds demonstrated their offensive capabilities by collecting 13 hits during the game. Elly De La Cruz was a standout performer, contributing significantly with a two-run homer and ending the night with two hits. Dane Myers also made a notable impact with a solo home run, adding to the Reds' score.

Sal Stewart and Juan Brito were instrumental in further solidifying the Reds' lead. Stewart achieved three hits and an RBI, while Brito also recorded three hits with an RBI. Their combined efforts helped the Reds sustain pressure on the Dodgers' pitching staff throughout the game.

Dodgers' Struggles on the Mound

The Dodgers' pitching rotation faced challenges against the Reds' relentless batting. Seth Halvorsen, who was handed the loss, gave up two runs in his inning of work. Blake Snell and Blake Treinen managed to keep the Reds scoreless during their time on the mound, but the rest of the Dodgers' bullpen couldn't contain the Reds' firepower.

Overall, the Dodgers utilized seven pitchers, but they struggled to find a rhythm to halt the Reds' offensive momentum. Despite solid efforts from Alex Vesia and Kris Bubic, who both pitched scoreless innings, the damage had already been done.

Reds' Effective Pitching

Tejay Antone emerged as a key figure on the mound for the Reds, earning the win with a brief but effective appearance. Although Andrew Abbott gave up a run over his 4.67 innings, he managed to keep the Dodgers from building any momentum. Abbott struck out five Dodgers and kept control, despite allowing five walks.

Javier Garcia, Brooks Burke, and Emilio Pagán all contributed scoreless innings to ensure the Reds maintained their lead. Their combined efforts were crucial in keeping the Dodgers at bay as the game progressed.

Mookie Betts was a rare bright spot for the Dodgers with three hits, but the rest of the lineup struggled to find consistency. Will Smith contributed with two hits and an RBI, but it wasn't enough to ignite a comeback for the Dodgers.

As the Reds and Dodgers look ahead, both teams have important matchups in their respective schedules. The Reds will continue their series against the Dodgers before hosting the Chicago Cubs. Meanwhile, the Dodgers will aim to bounce back in their upcoming games against the Reds and then take on the San Francisco Giants.

The Reds' triumph over a top-tier team like the Dodgers will certainly boost their confidence as they look to finish the season strong. For the Dodgers, it's a reminder of the competitive nature of the MLB, even against teams lower in the standings.