Athletics' Carlos Cortes Doubles Career Home Runs in Two-Homer Game vs Reds

Rookie outfielder Carlos Cortes has emerged as a key offensive contributor for the Athletics during their challenging 2025 season, highlighted by a multi-home run game against the Cincinnati Reds. With Tyler Soderstrom sidelined due to a groin injury, Cortes has taken advantage of increased playing time, hitting multiple home runs over recent games and posting a strong .328 batting average with a .925 OPS. His power display included two solo home runs in a 3-0 victory over the Reds, with blasts measured over 400 feet and exit velocities exceeding 105 mph, earning praise from Athletics manager Mark Kotsay for his consistent and professional at-bats despite limited opportunities. Cortes' rise from a third-round draft pick in 2018 to a late-blooming contributor symbolizes resilience and potential for the Athletics, offering fans a bright spot amid a rebuilding phase and uncertainty surrounding the team's future. The Athletics hope to keep Cortes in the lineup as Soderstrom's return remains uncertain, with Cortes emphasizing his focus on winning and taking advantage of every chance to play. His performance is not only stabilizing the Athletics' offense but also drawing positive recognition league-wide, spotlighting his impact in a tough season.