Reds Rally Late to Stun Marlins 6-3, Extend Winning Streak to Five Games
CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Reds staged a dramatic late-game comeback Tuesday night, overcoming a dominant performance by Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara to secure a 6-3 victory in extra innings. The win extends the Reds’ winning streak to five games and keeps them unbeaten on the road this season.
Ninth-Inning Drama
For eight innings, Alcantara looked untouchable, holding the Reds to just two hits while preserving a 2-0 lead. The reigning Cy Young winner had not allowed a run all season, stretching his scoreless streak to 24 innings. But Cincinnati refused to go quietly.
With one out in the ninth, Matt McLain sparked the rally with a double, followed by a walk to Elly De La Cruz. Reliever Anthony Bender entered but immediately struggled, surrendering a double steal and a sacrifice fly by Sal Stewart. Then, with two outs, Bender uncorked a wild pitch that allowed De La Cruz to dash home, tying the game and sending it to extra innings.
Extra-Inning Explosion
The Reds seized control in the 10th. Nathaniel Lowe delivered the go-ahead single, and McLain—already having a standout night—cracked a two-run double to widen the lead. Elly De La Cruz added an insurance run with an RBI groundout, putting Cincinnati up 6-2.
Miami managed a run in the bottom of the 10th, but Graham Ashcraft shut the door, inducing a game-ending double play to seal the victory.
Key Performances
McLain was the offensive standout, finishing with two doubles and two RBIs. His contributions helped the Reds improve to 8-3, matching their best start since 2011.
On the mound, Emilio Pagán (1-0) earned the win after escaping a bases-loaded jam in the ninth. Meanwhile, Miami’s Bender (0-1) took the loss after blowing the save.
Defensive Miscue Ends Perfect Streak
Cincinnati had been the last MLB team without an error this season, but that streak ended in the sixth inning when McLain was charged with obstruction on a play at second base.
What’s Next?
The Reds and Marlins continue their four-game series Wednesday night. Cincinnati will send right-hander Brady Singer (0-0, 5.00 ERA) to the mound, while Miami counters with Eury Perez (0-1, 5.73 ERA).
With momentum on their side, the Reds look to keep rolling as they chase their best start in over a decade.
— Reported by Nexio News
