Reds Beat Nationals 6-1 After Rain Delay at Great American Ball Park

CINCINNATI (AP) — The Cincinnati Reds defeated the Washington Nationals 6-1 Friday night at Great American Ball Park, following a lengthy rain delay that lasted nearly two hours. The game, originally scheduled for a 6:10 p.m. start, began at 8 p.m. due to inclement weather.

Prior to the delay, lightning in the area prompted officials to advise fans to seek shelter in the concourse, while awaiting further updates. This delay was not uncommon for the Reds, who faced multiple disruptions from rain earlier in the week.

Reds pitcher Hunter Greene had an impressive night, striking out 12 batters — the second-highest total in his career — and allowing just two hits over six innings. Greene’s performance improved his record to 4-2 and lowered his ERA to 2.53.

“I felt really good out there tonight,” Greene said. “I was able to mix my pitches well and keep them off balance.” His fastball averaged 99 mph, and he recorded 21 swings and misses on 114 pitches.

Tyler Stephenson made a notable return after intensive rehabilitation from a left oblique strain, hitting a two-run double in the third inning.

The Reds quickly built a commanding 5-0 lead, beginning with a two-run double from Santiago Espinal in the first inning. Matt McLain added to the score with a run-scoring forceout in the second. The Nationals’ Mitchell Parker struggled on the mound, allowing four earned runs on four hits and four walks before exiting after four innings.

Josh Bell homered in the fifth, marking his fifth home run of the season, but it wasn’t enough to rally the Nationals. Greene secured his dominance by striking out five of his last six batters faced.

Next up, the Reds aim to continue their momentum against the Nationals with game two of the series on Saturday, where Reds left-handed pitcher Nick Lodolo (3-2, 2.25) is set to face Nationals right-hander Trevor Williams (1-3, 5.70). The weather conditions may again pose challenges for the teams.