Cardinals Beat Reds 6-5 in 11-Inning NL Central Showdown

The Cincinnati Reds suffered consecutive losses to the St. Louis Cardinals, including a 6-5 defeat in 11 innings where they blew a 5-2 lead late in the game due to bullpen failures. Despite Elly De La Cruz's heroic performance including a 17th home run and his determination to stay in the game after getting sick on the field, the Reds bullpen faltered, allowing the Cardinals to rally with key hits including a game-tying homer by Nolan Arenado and the winning RBI single by Yohel Pozo in the 11th inning. The Reds have struggled significantly in extra innings this season, going 1-6 and scoring only one run in their last eight extra frames. The previous day's game also featured a disastrous seventh inning where the Reds bullpen and defense collapsed, leading to a 6-1 loss marked by walks, a hit batsman, and an error that allowed five runs. The Cardinals have taken control in the National League Central series, maintaining a three-game lead over the Reds, who have yet to win a series in Cincinnati against St. Louis since 2003. Manager Tito Francona acknowledged the impact of the bullpen’s mistakes and the Cardinals’ ability to capitalize on extra opportunities.