Spencer Steer's Two Homers Lead Reds to Victory Over Cardinals
- Spencer Steer hit two home runs and drove in five runs for the Cincinnati Reds.
- Elly De La Cruz added to the victory with his 21st homer of the season.
- The Reds dominated the game, defeating the St. Louis Cardinals 6-1.
CINCINNATI (AP) — The Cincinnati Reds showcased a powerful offensive performance on Monday night, defeating the St. Louis Cardinals 6-1. Spencer Steer led the charge with two home runs and five RBIs, while Elly De La Cruz contributed his team-leading 21st homer. The Reds' victory was bolstered by a strong pitching performance from Andrew Abbott, who allowed just one run and five hits over 6 2/3 innings, breaking a three-game losing streak. Abbott, who had struggled in his previous outings, managed to escape critical situations, including bases-loaded jams in the second and third innings. The turning point came in the third inning when Steer and De La Cruz hit back-to-back homers off Cardinals pitcher Gray, giving Cincinnati a 3-1 lead. This marked the fifth instance this season where the Reds achieved consecutive home runs. Steer continued to shine, hitting a three-run homer in the fifth inning, marking his first career multi-homer game. The game also saw Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol ejected for the fourth time this season, adding to his career total of 13 ejections. In injury news, Reds pitcher Graham Ashcraft is set to begin a six-week throwing program following a right elbow strain, while infielder Matt McLain is expected to resume hitting soon after shoulder surgery. The Cardinals will look to bounce back with RHP Erick Fedde on the mound for Tuesday's game.