The Cincinnati Reds extended their winning streak to six games with a 3-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Friday night. Nick Lodolo pitched six strong innings, allowing just one run, while Tyler Stephenson’s two-run double helped secure the win. The Reds have won 11 of their last 14 games, pulling even with the Cubs in the NL Central standings.
The Cubs, on the other hand, have struggled, losing 11 of their last 15 games. Justin Steele pitched seven innings for Chicago, giving up three runs on five hits with seven strikeouts. Despite Steele’s efforts, the Cubs couldn’t overcome the Reds’ lead.
Spencer Steer and Blake Dunn both contributed to the Reds’ offense, with Dunn scoring his first major league hit. Dansby Swanson hit a solo home run for the Cubs’ only run against Lodolo, who struck out seven batters through six innings.
In the ninth inning, the Cubs managed to score a run, but the Reds held on for a 3-2 win. Alexis Díaz recorded his 13th save of the season by striking out Patrick Wisdom to end the game.
In injury news, Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner was scratched from the lineup due to a hand injury, while LHP Jordan Wicks was reinstated from the injured list and moved to the bullpen. Reds left-hander Brandon Williamson was shut down for at least seven days due to shoulder soreness.
The Reds will send Andrew Abbott to the mound to face Ben Brown of the Cubs in the next game on Saturday.