Reds Beat Rays, Move Closer in Wild Card Race

Elly De La Cruz delivered a crucial two-out, two-run single in the seventh inning to break a tie and lift the Cincinnati Reds to a 6-2 win over the Tampa Bay Rays, clinching a series victory. The Reds improved to 55-50 and moved just one game back in the National League Wild Card race. Reds starter Andrew Abbott allowed only one run over six innings, and Emilio Pagán secured his 22nd save with a perfect ninth. The game featured strong defensive plays and a contentious umpiring call that led to manager Terry Francona's ejection. Yandy Díaz homered for the Rays, but defensive mistakes and a lack of offense contributed to their sixth straight road loss and 12th in their last 15 away games. The Reds have now won three straight and nine of their last thirteen, bolstering their playoff hopes.