Marlins Beat Reds 5-1 in Series Opener Amid Reds' Offensive Struggles

The Cincinnati Reds and Miami Marlins split their recent four-game series, with the Reds taking the finale 6-0 after the Marlins won the opener 5-1. In the series opener, Miami's Janson Junk held Cincinnati to one hit over six innings, supported by Agustín Ramírez's home run and a critical defensive lapse by the Reds that helped Miami pull away. The Reds' offensive woes continued during the homestand, managing only three hits in the opener and scoring just one run in each of their last three games leading up to the split. In the finale, Nick Lodolo pitched six scoreless innings, Spencer Steer homered, and Elly De La Cruz notched his 100th hit of the season to help secure the Reds' win. Cincinnati's strong pitching and opportunistic offense prevented them from being swept, maintaining a 30-series streak without a sweep to start the season, their best since 1989. Defensive inconsistencies, particularly at third base, remain a concern for the Reds as the All-Star break approaches.