The Athletics enjoyed a productive evening at Sutter Health Park, overcoming the Cincinnati Reds 7-4 on a hot September night. With this victory, the Athletics improved their record to 69-80, maintaining their position at 4th in the AL West. Meanwhile, the Reds dropped to an even 74-74, holding 3rd place in the NL Central.
Reds Start Strong But Fizzle Out
Cincinnati jumped out to an early lead by scoring three runs in the first two innings. Nick Lodolo provided a solid start on the mound, pitching 5.33 innings and striking out five, but his efforts weren’t enough to hold back the surging Athletics.
The Reds had some notable contributions from players like Will Benson, who homered and drove in two runs. Noelvi Marte also showcased his power with a home run and an RBI, but their efforts fell short of stopping the Athletics’ offensive momentum.
Athletics Find Their Groove
After a slow start, the Athletics found their rhythm in the fourth inning, scoring twice to narrow the gap. By the end of the fifth inning, they had seized control with two more runs, leading 4-3.
Standout performances by Jordan Wilson and Nolan Kurtz highlighted the Athletics’ offensive onslaught. Kurtz contributed with a home run and two RBIs, while Wilson also added a home run to his tally.
Brent Rooker and Cody Thomas provided significant contributions, each adding a home run to ensure the Athletics’ lead. Thomas shined with three hits, scoring twice, as part of the team’s 10-hit effort.
Pitching Holds the Line for Athletics
On the mound for the Athletics, Luis Morales delivered a steady performance, allowing three runs over five innings while striking out two. The bullpen effectively protected the lead, with Mason Kelly closing the door in the ninth to secure the victory.
Besides Morales, Sam Newcomb and Jeff Sterner provided key relief appearances, allowing just one run between them. The pitching staff managed to stifle Cincinnati’s offense, holding them to seven hits and a lone run over the final innings.
The heat at Sutter Health Park didn’t deter the Athletics from putting on a defensive clinic, with none of their pitchers issuing more than two walks. Their disciplined approach on the mound complemented their offensive prowess, setting the tone for the win.
The Athletics’ home record now stands at 32-42, a mark they hope to improve on as they continue their season. The team will look to carry this momentum into their upcoming games against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park.
Meanwhile, the Reds will aim to bounce back as they head to Busch Stadium to face the St. Louis Cardinals. Their road record sits at 34-40, and they’ll need to find consistency if they hope to climb in the NL Central standings.
With each team having a different trajectory in the standings, the game provided a glimpse into the spirit and capability both teams possess. As the season progresses, the Athletics and Reds will look to capitalize on opportunities like these to refine their strategies and bolster their standings.
