CINCINNATI — Will Benson delivered a thrilling bases-loaded single in the bottom of the ninth inning against San Diego closer Robert Suarez, securing a 3-2 victory for the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday. This win marked the Reds’ third walk-off of the season and their second during a six-game homestand.
The excitement began in the ninth when Elly De La Cruz opened with an infield single, initially ruled an error by Padres third baseman Tyler Wade. Spencer Steer then tied the game with a one-out RBI single, and after Jose Trevino singled to load the bases, Benson came through with a sharp single down the right-field line that brought in Gavin Lux for the win.
Earlier in the game, De La Cruz had tied the score in the sixth inning with an RBI single, but the Padres regained the lead in the seventh thanks to Jose Iglesias’ RBI fielder’s choice. This comeback was particularly notable as it was one of the rare instances where the Reds managed to win after trailing heading into the eighth inning, a situation they had previously struggled in with a 1-34 record.
Cincinnati’s closer Emilio Pagan earned the victory after a solid ninth inning, while Suarez suffered just his third blown save of the season, contributing to his status as the MLB save leader with 23 prior to this game.
Xander Bogaerts had an impressive outing for the Padres, going 3-for-4 with a home run and two doubles. However, San Diego’s struggles with runners in scoring position proved critical, as they stranded 13 players and finished the game with an 0-for-13 record in those situations.
Looking ahead, the Reds will send right-hander Chase Burns to the mound against Red Sox ace Garrett Crochet, while the Padres will face the Phillies with Matt Waldron starting against Zack Wheeler.
This exciting victory not only showcased the Reds’ ability to fight back but also emphasized their potential for growth as they continue to build on this momentum in upcoming games.