Cardinals Edge Reds in Extra Innings Thriller

CINCINNATI: In a thrilling MLB matchup at Great American Ball Park on Friday, Masyn Winn’s clutch hitting propelled the St. Louis Cardinals to a 7-5 extra-innings victory over the Cincinnati Reds. Winn drove in three runs, including a critical RBI single in the 10th inning, to seal the win.

The seesaw battle saw numerous lead changes, but Winn proved to be the deciding factor. An error by Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz in the 10th allowed the go-ahead run to cross the plate, and Winn followed with a single to extend the lead. Earlier, Winn delivered a two-out RBI double in the eighth.

Ivan Herrera had a productive day at the plate, going two-for-three with a solo home run and two runs scored. Pedro Pages added a two-run home run for the Cardinals.

Matthew Liberatore pitched well as the Cardinals’ starter, going five-plus innings and allowing three runs on eight hits while recording four strikeouts.

Matt Svanson (3-0) earned the win in relief, while Ryan Fernandez notched his first career save.

Despite home runs from Noelvi Marte, Spencer Steer, and Ke’Bryan Hayes, the Reds’ losing streak continued as they suffered their seventh defeat in the last eight games.

De La Cruz had a solid performance, hitting a double and a triple and scoring two runs, but his costly error in the 10th inning overshadowed his efforts.

Zack Littell, the Reds’ starter, pitched seven innings, allowing three earned runs and four total, but Tony Santillan (1-5) took the loss in relief.

The Cardinals’ victory provides a boost to their playoff aspirations, while Cincinnati will seek to rebound in the next game of the series. Michael McGreevy will pitch for St. Louis against Andrew Abbott for the Reds on Saturday.