Spring training often serves up some unexpected thrills, and Sunday’s clash between the Cincinnati Reds and Seattle Mariners in Goodyear, Arizona, was no exception. The Reds seemed to have things under control with an 8-2 lead, but the Mariners turned the tables, delivering a 12-run barrage after the fourth inning to secure a dramatic comeback victory.
Game Highlights
Seattle got off to a quick start, posting a run in the first inning. However, the Reds responded with gusto in the second, stringing together six consecutive one-out hits. This offensive burst included RBI doubles from JJ Bleday and Matt McLain, contributing to a five-run rally.
In the fourth inning, the Reds extended their lead. Bleday, Rece Hinds, and McLain each singled, setting the stage for Elly De La Cruz, who delivered a scorching 112.5 MPH two-run double. Remarkably, this was only the third hardest-hit ball of the game, yet it pushed the Reds' lead to 8-2.
But from there, it was all Mariners. Seattle chipped away with three runs in the fifth, two in the seventh, and another in the eighth to tie the game. They sealed the deal with a six-run explosion in the ninth, leaving the Reds in their wake.
News and Notes
The challenge system got quite the workout, with nine calls being contested. Six of these were overturned, a testament to the umpire’s challenging day. But hey, it’s spring training for everyone.
Several Reds stood out at the plate: Matt McLain (2-3, 2B, 2 RBI), Elly De La Cruz (2-3, 2 2B, 2 RBI), JJ Bleday (2-3, 2B, 2 RBI), and Rece Hinds (2-2, 2 runs) all enjoyed multi-hit performances.
Cincinnati’s bench didn’t fare as well, managing just one hit in 14 at-bats. Michael Chavis provided the lone spark with a line-drive single in the sixth.
On the mound, relievers Nick Sando, Graham Ashcraft, and Tejay Antone each delivered a scoreless inning, showcasing some solid pitching amidst the chaos.
However, control was an issue for the Reds’ pitchers, who issued 10 walks compared to zero for their hitters. Connor Phillips and Zach Maxwell struggled with command, combining for seven walks in just 1.1 innings.
Despite the high-scoring affair, only one home run was hit, and it didn’t come until the ninth inning.
The silver lining? Everyone made it through the game healthy, which is the real win in spring training.
The Reds have a day off tomorrow before returning to action on Tuesday against the Kansas City Royals. Andrew Abbott is slated to make his spring debut, offering fans a glimpse of what he might bring to the mound this season.