In a dramatic turn of events for the Cincinnati Reds, Eugenio Suárez, who just a day prior was the hero with a game-winning homer, found himself in a tough spot on Sunday. Facing the Pittsburgh Pirates, Suárez had to leave the game after being struck on the left hand by a fastball from Mitch Keller.
It was the sixth inning, and the Reds were looking to complete a sweep in the series, but the Pirates had other plans, taking the game 9-4. Suárez, serving as the Reds' designated hitter, was up to bat with two outs when Keller's pitch veered inside, catching him on the hand. The impact was immediate and visible, with cameras capturing a noticeable swelling.
Despite the obvious pain, Suárez showed his resilience. After a quick assessment from manager Terry Francona and head trainer Sean McQueeney, he decided to stay in the game, taking his place at first base. However, not before casting a lingering look back at Keller, perhaps contemplating the pitch that altered his day.
By the eighth inning, Nathaniel Lowe was called upon to pinch-hit for Suárez, marking the end of his participation in the game. As for Suárez's condition, the initial X-rays didn't provide a clear picture, leaving the team and fans alike in suspense about the extent of the injury.
For Cincinnati, the hope is that Suárez's setback is temporary. His presence in the lineup is crucial, especially considering his recent clutch performances. As the Reds continue their season, they'll be keeping a close eye on their slugger's recovery, eager to see him back in action and swinging for the fences once more.
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Tyler Callihans three-run homer put the Pirates in control, and the Reds could not answer enough to change the feel of the afternoon. A rain delay only added to the frustration, as Pittsburgh came back out and kept widening the gap, leaving Cincinnati at 39-43 and still searching for a way to stop these winnable games from getting away. [Read more 🡒]