MIAMI — The Cincinnati Reds are finding ways to win games in 2026 that they weren’t able to a year ago. Even though the bats have been cold and Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo are on the injured list, the Reds have won two out of three series this season.
This became the first Reds team in any nine-game span to score 26 or fewer runs and win six-or-more times since 1980. Seven of the Reds’ wins so far, entering Tuesday, have been decided by two runs or fewer. That’s the most such wins in MLB this year.
“Being good at the little things is big messaging,” outfielder Will Benson said. “The big homers are great. The little things, I’m seeing, are super important toward putting your team in the best position to win. Guys are getting paid a lot of money to get us out. Hitting comes and goes. Defense always has to be there.”
While the bats haven’t gotten going, the Reds have been winning with pitching and defense.
Chase Burns and Rhett Lowder are two of the 15-youngest starting pitchers in MLB, but they’ve consistently performed at a high level throughout their young big league careers so far.
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The Reds invested heavily in their rotation by using first-round picks on pitchers out of Wake Forest in 2023 and 2024. Burns and Lowder are living up to the hype, and they were the stars of the Reds’ series sweep in Texas as they delivered standout performances.
“It’s a ton of fun,” Lowder said. “We keep pushing each other to be better. I don’t think that will stop.”
They have very different approaches. Burns is one of the hardest throwing pitchers in the sport and uses a wicked slider to generate swings and misses. Lowder mixes four pitches, forces weak contact and uses great command.
Together, they’re a big part of the Reds’ plan to win now and in the future.
Cincinnati Reds’ Will Benson reacts after hitting a single during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Miami Marlins, Monday, April 6, 2026, in Miami.
Lynne Sladky – AP
“For them to be here and be a part of this, there’s so much for them to learn,” catcher Tyler Stephenson said. “Look at where they were when they were first called up to where they are now. It’s not a finished product. It’ll be exciting when they are because they’re already really talented.”
The Reds have also invested time, energy and resources into improving the team’s defense. The Reds didn’t have an error through their first nine games this season, which is the first time that has happened in the history of the franchise.
“That’s huge,” TJ Friedl said. “That’s our identity. Making the tough plays and letting our pitching do all of the work.”
The defense as a whole looks better. Friedl is playing more left field, which is a stronger position for him than center field. Dane Myers has given the Reds an impact defensive center fielder on the bench. Ke’Bryan Hayes is one of the best defenders in baseball. Elly De La Cruz is improved at shortstop, and Matt McLain is more confident at second base this season.
Some of the biggest moments from the Reds this season have come on defense.
It’s another example of how the Reds are a more well-rounded team this year than they were last year. That added depth has also shown up in the bullpen with Connor Phillips and Brock Burke recording saves.
“It really helps a ballclub when you win and everybody contributes,” Terry Francona said. “Those other guys, they stepped up. It’ll help us down the road.”
Cincinnati Reds’ Sal Stewart is out at third during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Miami Marlins, Monday, April 6, 2026, in Miami.
Lynne Sladky – AP