Reds Win 3-2 Over Cubs on Friedl Tiebreaking Single

TJ Friedl delivered a crucial tiebreaking RBI single in the seventh inning to lead the Cincinnati Reds to a 3-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs, marking a key win as both teams vie in the NL Central playoff race. Tyler Stephenson contributed a home run for the Reds, while Elly De La Cruz added an RBI double, helping Cincinnati end a rough stretch after losing four of six games. The Cubs' offense was paced by Dansby Swanson, who hit his 17th home run, but Chicago fell three games behind division leader Milwaukee. Both teams faced pitching challenges as starters Nick Lodolo (Reds) and Michael Soroka (Cubs) exited early with injuries; Lodolo due to a blister and Soroka with right shoulder discomfort. A pivotal moment occurred when the Cubs appeared to tie the game late in the seventh inning, but a replay review overturned a call on Swanson for missing first base, preserving the Reds' lead. The game featured extensive bullpen use with a combined 12 pitchers, and Scott Barlow secured the win for Cincinnati while Emilio Pagán earned his 24th save.