Reds Explode Offensively, Defeat Mets Behind Hays’ Two Home Runs
The Cincinnati Reds defeated the New York Mets 8-4 in a Friday night contest at Citi Field, fueled by a potent offensive performance highlighted by Austin Hays’ two home runs and three RBIs. The Reds overcame an early 2-0 deficit by scoring eight unanswered runs, providing ample support for starting pitcher Nick Lodolo.
Hays Leads Offensive Charge
Austin Hays, a free-agent acquisition in the offseason, enjoyed a productive night at the plate, recording his second multi-home run game of the season. He wasn’t alone, as the Reds lineup consistently put pressure on the Mets’ pitching staff.
In the eighth inning, the Reds demonstrated patience, drawing three walks to force in a run. This combination of power hitting and disciplined plate appearances allowed them to extend their lead and keep the pressure on Mets reliever Brandon Waddell, who struggled to consistently throw strikes. The Reds ultimately tallied eight runs on eight hits.
Hays’ performance is a positive sign for the Reds as they navigate the season. His ability to drive in runs will be crucial for the team’s offensive success.
Lodolo Delivers Quality Start
After surrendering runs in the first two innings, left-hander Nick Lodolo settled in and dominated the Mets lineup. He pitched five consecutive scoreless innings, allowing only two hits during that stretch.
Lodolo finished the night with seven strong innings, recording seven strikeouts and issuing just one walk. He threw 97 pitches, 62 for strikes. This marks his second consecutive start of at least six innings with two or fewer earned runs allowed.
Lodolo’s performance is vital for the Reds’ pitching rotation. If he can consistently deliver quality starts, the Reds’ pitching staff will be a major asset.
Sixth Inning Surge Breaks the Game Open
The Reds seized control of the game in the top of the sixth inning. Hays led off the inning with his second home run of the game, giving the Reds a 4-2 lead.
The Reds continued to capitalize on the Mets’ pitching struggles. Spencer Steer walked and advanced to second on a wild pitch. Tyler Stephenson then launched a two-run home run to left field, extending the Reds’ lead to 6-2.
Two home runs, two walks, and a wild pitch contributed to a four-run inning that effectively took the crowd out of the game.
Additional Highlights from the Game
- Matt McLain: Went 2-4 with two RBIs, hitting a two-run home run in the fifth inning that ultimately proved to be the game-winner.
- Tyler Stephenson: Also had a strong offensive showing, going 2-4 with two RBIs and a run scored.
- Right Field Rotation: Santiago Espinal, Jake Fraley, and Connor Joe all saw time in right field during the game.
- Bullpen Contributions: Graham Ashcraft pitched the eighth inning, and Sam Moll finished off the Mets in the ninth.
- TJ Friedl: Was hit by a pitch three times during the game.
- Sean Manaea: The Mets’ left-handed starter pitched four innings, allowing just one earned run on one hit, with two walks and six strikeouts.
- Mets Bullpen Woes: The Mets’ bullpen struggled, allowing seven earned runs on seven hits, with five walks and only four strikeouts in five innings of work.
Looking Ahead
The Reds and Mets will continue their series with a Saturday afternoon game at Citi Field. Nick Martinez is scheduled to start for the Reds, while Clay Holmes will take the mound for the Mets.