Reds' Encarnacion-Strand Hits First Grand Slam in 8-4 Win Over Red Sox

Christian Encarnacion-Strand delivered a pivotal performance for the Cincinnati Reds, hitting his first career grand slam in the seventh inning to break a 3-0 deficit and lead the team to an 8-4 victory over the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. The 25-year-old first baseman connected on a 439-foot, 109.1 mph fastball off reliever Greg Weissert, turning the game around and energizing the Reds' offense during the late innings. Despite a recent slump with a .157 average over his last 15 games, Encarnacion-Strand's grand slam marked his sixth homer of the season and shifted momentum decisively in Cincinnati's favor. The Reds capitalized further with additional runs in the seventh and eighth innings, helped by key hits from Elly De La Cruz and Santiago Espinal, ultimately securing the come-from-behind win. Encarnacion-Strand was a last-minute substitution after Spencer Steer was scratched due to injury, underlining the impact of his clutch hitting in a crucial game. This victory wrapped up the Reds' series in Boston and showcased the resilience and depth of their lineup.