Full Breakdown
Reds Clinch Series Win in Philadelphia, 9-4
5/21/2026, 11:22:56 PM
Background & Context
After a month-long offensive slump, the Cincinnati Reds snapped their losing streak with a 9-4 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies on May 20, 2026, clinching the three-game series. It was Cincinnati’s first series win since beating the Houston Astros 2-1 on Mother’s Day Weekend and the Phillies’ first series loss under interim manager Don Mattingly. The win lifted the Reds to 26-24 overall, though they remain 1-9 in NL Central play.
Key Performers
Starter Andrew Abbott worked 5 1/3 innings, yielding one earned run on three hits and 64 of 96 pitches for strikes. Sal Stewart supplied a two-run ninth-inning homer, while Nathaniel Lowe delivered two doubles and three RBIs, including a decisive two-run double in the seventh. Spencer Steer extended his hitting streak to 11 games, and catcher P.J. Higgins contributed two hits and two RBIs but committed two errors.
Data & Statistics
The Reds won 9-4, taking the series 2-1. Abbott’s line was 5 1/3 IP, 1 ER, 3 H, 64 of 96 pitches for strikes. Lowe posted two doubles and three RBIs, including a two-run double off Orion Kerkering. Stewart recorded his 12th career homer. Cincinnati sits 26-24 overall, 1-9 in the NL Central; Philadelphia was without Kyle Schwarber and saw Aaron Nola fall to 2-4 after allowing four runs. P.J. Higgins made two errors behind the plate.
Official Statements & Responses
Phillies manager Don Mattingly urged his club to “expect to win” and treat the season one game at a time. The Reds noted that Abbott’s resurgence could be a turning point for the pitching staff.
Criticism & Opposition
The Phillies entered the finale without Kyle Schwarber, sidelined by a stomach ailment, and saw starter Aaron Nola fall to 2-4 after allowing four runs. The 1-9 NL Central record underscores lingering struggles despite the win.
On-the-Ground Reports
Lowe’s two-run double in the seventh cut the Phillies’ lead to 5-4, and Stewart’s ninth-inning two-run homer secured the win. The Reds amassed eight hits, while the Phillies stole four bases against Higgins, who also made two errors.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think our guys should expect to win,” — Don Mattingly, Phillies Manager
- “I haven't really done much different,” — Bryson Stott, Phillies Shortstop
- “Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images | Kyle Ross-Imagn Images The Reds' offense finally had a big day at the plate, and they only needed one home run.” — Game recap
- “The Phillies had narrowed a four-run deficit to 5-4 when Lowe drove a 2-1 fastball from reliever Orion Kerkering off the wall in center field for a two-run double in the seventh.” — Game summary
What’s Next
Cincinnati returns home to host the St. Louis Cardinals. Friday’s opener features right-hander Chris Paddack (0-5, 7.07 ERA) versus left-hander Kyle Leahy (5-3, 3.94 ERA) at 6:40 p.m.; Saturday sees right-hander Brady Singer (2-4, 6.26 ERA) against right-hander Andre Pallante (4-4, 4.04 ERA); Sunday’s start is left-hander Nick Lodolo (0-1, 7.20 ERA) at 1:40 p.m.
