Reds Bullpen Collapses in Series Loss to Cubs

The Cincinnati Reds suffered a series loss to the Chicago Cubs, marked by repeated bullpen collapses that allowed the Cubs to overcome substantial late-game deficits, including a five-run comeback in Sunday's 11-8 win. Over the three-game series, the Reds' bullpen gave up 19 runs in just over 11 innings, with 21 of the Cubs' 28 total runs coming in the final three innings of each game. Notable moments included Reese McGuire's two home runs—his first ever off a left-hander—and Seiya Suzuki's decisive three-run homer on Sunday. In Friday's opener, Pete Crow-Armstrong hit a grand slam and drove in six runs during another Cubs comeback. The Reds' losing streak has continued, leaving them 6.5 games out of first place in the NL Central and facing a challenging schedule ahead. Manager Tito Francona stressed the need for the bullpen and roster to regroup before upcoming games against winning teams.