Cincinnati Reds lose home opener 6-4 to Giants

In a disappointing Opening Day for new Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona, the team squandered a late lead, losing 6-4 to the San Francisco Giants. After leading 3-2 into the ninth inning, the Reds' reliever Ian Gibaut allowed a game-tying hit followed by a three-run homer from Wilmer Flores, marking Gibaut's tenth career blown save. Hunter Greene pitched well for Cincinnati, striking out eight and allowing only two runs, while Jeimer Candelario drove in three runs for the Reds. The game was played in front of a sellout crowd at Great American Ball Park, with pregame festivities honoring local figures and veterans. Francona's managerial decision to use Gibaut as the closer has come under scrutiny, as the Reds look to address their bullpen struggles moving forward. Cincinnati will face the Giants again in their next game, which is designated as 'Kids Opening Day.'