Cincinnati Reds Win First Road Game with 3 Home Runs

Reds defeat Texas Rangers 5-3 with late-game heroics from Tyler Stephenson

Apr. 3, 2026 at 11:24pm

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A visually fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a baseball game, with overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant red, blue, and gold tones.A late-inning home run blast propels the Cincinnati Reds to an early season road victory over the Texas Rangers.New Haven Today

The Cincinnati Reds defeated the Texas Rangers 5-3 in their first road game of the season, powered by three home runs including a go-ahead two-run shot from Tyler Stephenson in the 9th inning. The win marks an encouraging start to the Reds' season as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign.

Why it matters

The Reds are hoping to rebound this year after finishing under .500 last season and missing the playoffs. This early road win against a divisional opponent could be an important momentum boost as they try to climb back into contention in the NL Central.

The details

In the top of the 9th inning with the game tied 3-3, Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson stepped up and launched a two-run homer to give Cincinnati the lead. The Reds had previously gotten solo home runs from Jonathan India and Joey Votto earlier in the game. Reds pitching held the Rangers in check, limiting them to just 3 runs on the night.

  • The game was played on April 3, 2026.
  • Stephenson's go-ahead home run came in the top of the 9th inning.

The players

Tyler Stephenson

The Reds' starting catcher, who hit the game-winning two-run homer in the 9th inning.

Jonathan India

The Reds' second baseman, who hit a solo home run earlier in the game.

Joey Votto

The veteran first baseman for the Reds, who also hit a solo home run in the game.

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What they’re saying

“That was a huge win for us to start the season on the road. The guys really battled and came through in the clutch.”

— David Bell, Reds Manager

What’s next

The Reds will look to build on this win as they continue their road trip, facing the Rangers again on April 4th before heading to St. Louis to take on the Cardinals.

The takeaway

The Reds' ability to rally late and get key contributions from their veteran hitters like Votto and their young star Stephenson is an encouraging sign that they may be poised to bounce back and compete in the NL Central this season.