(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Steer’s Three-Run Blast, Littell’s Strong Debut Lift Reds Over Cubs 5-1
CHICAGO, August 6 — Spencer Steer hit a pivotal three-run home run and Zack Littell delivered seven impressive innings in his Cincinnati Reds debut, helping the Reds secure a 5-1 win over the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday night at Wrigley Field.
Steer Sparks Reds Offense
Steer broke the game open in the top of the third inning with a deep shot to left-center field, giving Cincinnati a 4-0 lead. It was his 17th home run of the season, and the timely blast gave the Reds early momentum they never relinquished.
“I was just looking for a good pitch to drive,” Steer said postgame. “Glad I could come through for the team.”
TJ Friedl added a solo home run in the seventh inning, padding the Reds’ lead and capping off a productive night at the plate for Cincinnati.
Littell Shines in First Reds Start
Acquired at the trade deadline, Zack Littell (1-0) made an immediate impact. The right-hander allowed just one run on four hits over seven innings, striking out five without issuing a walk. He retired the first 10 batters he faced and kept the Cubs off-balance with a mix of fastballs and breaking pitches.
“Zack gave us exactly what we needed,” said Reds manager David Bell. “He was in complete control out there.”
Cubs Struggle Offensively
The Chicago Cubs managed just one run, which came in the fourth inning on an RBI groundout by Ian Happ after a double by Seiya Suzuki. Outside of that, Chicago struggled to generate offense and finished the night with just five hits.
Starter Javier Assad (6-6) took the loss, allowing four runs (three earned) on six hits over five innings. He struck out three and walked one.
Reds Gaining Ground
The win was an important one for Cincinnati as the team continues to fight for position in the National League Wild Card race. With the victory, the Reds have now won three of their last four games and are showing signs of consistency heading into a crucial stretch of the season.
