The Reds' lineup is beginning to find consistent success.
The Cincinnati Reds defeated the Tampa Bay Rays by a final score of 12-6 on Tuesday. Cincinnati now holds a 16-8 record and the ball club looks like one of the best teams in the National League. The pitching has been respectable for most of the season, but the lineup struggled to begin the campaign. However, it is heating up in recent action.
The Reds have now scored at least five runs in each of their past four games. Overall, Cincinnati has earned five consecutive victories. The offense has led the way over the past few games, which may be considered surprising after the lineup's performance to begin the year.
Manager Terry Francona addressed the lineup's success following Tuesday's contest, via Chatterbox Sports.
"I'm really happy for our hitters," Francona said. "If they can breathe a little bit, they'll be better hitters."
Elly De La Cruz led the scoring outburst with two home runs, three hits and five RBIs. Sal Stewart had two hits and three RBIs. Dane Myers and Spencer Steer also both hit home runs in the victory.
Cincinnati knows that players such as De La Cruz and Stewart can make a significant impact. When players who are not necessarily stars help matters from an offensive standpoint, however, then the Reds find themselves in a tremendous position. Depth is of the utmost importance, of course.
Reds' Lineup Silencing Doubters
There was a time earlier in the season that the Reds were last in runs scored. They are now 21st in runs after their recent strong scoring performances. Cincinnati is also sixth in MLB in home runs. The ball club is still just 30th in team batting average, but the lineup is still trending in an encouraging direction without question.
They are silencing their doubters, but there still is work to do. Finding consistency and performing at a respectable level throughout the entire season is the goal. Momentum is unquestionably on the Reds' side at the moment.
Cincinnati now leads the series with Tampa Bay 2-0. The Reds earned a 6-1 win on Monday before cruising to the aforementioned 12-6 victory on Tuesday. On Wednesday, the teams will go head-to-head once again in the final contest of the series.
Brandon Williamson (2-1, 4.35 ERA) will get the start for the Reds. Meanwhile, Nick Martinez is set to start for the Rays. Williamson is surely hoping to receive run support like the offense has been providing.
First pitch is scheduled for 1:10 PM EST.