UPDATE: The Cincinnati Reds are just one victory away from clinching a coveted wild-card playoff spot after a decisive 7-4 win over the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday night. Sal Stewart’s homer and Miguel Andujar’s stellar 3-for-5 performance propelled the Reds closer to their first postseason berth since 2020.
The Reds can secure the National League’s third and final wild-card position if they defeat the Brewers again on Sunday or if the New York Mets fall to the Miami Marlins. A loss for Cincinnati paired with a Mets win would send New York to the playoffs instead. The stakes are high as the third wild-card team is set to face the Los Angeles Dodgers in a best-of-three series starting on Tuesday.
As of now, both the Reds and Mets hold identical records of 83-78, but Cincinnati claims the head-to-head tiebreaker due to their 4-2 series advantage this season. In a dramatic turn of events, the Mets defeated the Marlins 5-0 earlier on Saturday, intensifying the competition for the final playoff berth.
“We know what’s at stake,” said Reds manager David Bell. “Every game counts, and we’re focused on taking care of our business.”
In Saturday’s matchup, Cincinnati broke through with a stunning six-run third inning. The rally began when Noelvi Marte reached base on a throwing error by Brewers starter Robert Gasser. He advanced to third on Andujar’s double and scored on Stewart’s single, igniting the offensive explosion.
Rookie Jacob Misiorowski made his major league debut in relief for the Brewers, facing a challenging situation with the bases loaded. The Reds capitalized, with Ke’Bryan Hayes hitting an infield single, and Matt McLain drawing a walk. An error by left fielder Isaac Collins allowed McLain to score, further extending Cincinnati’s lead.
Starting pitcher Andrew Abbott delivered a solid performance, allowing three runs over 5 1/3 innings, while Emilio Pagan, pitching for the fourth consecutive day, secured his 32nd save of the season, retiring the side in order in the ninth.
The Brewers, despite the loss, have clinched the best regular-season record in Major League Baseball, ensuring home-field advantage throughout the postseason after the Philadelphia Phillies fell to the Minnesota Twins 5-0.
As the final games of the regular season unfold, all eyes will be on Sunday’s matchups. The Reds will look to secure their playoff fate, while the Mets will strive for their own postseason dream against the Marlins. Stay tuned for updates as this thrilling race reaches its climax!
