Wilyer Abreu Shines But Red Sox Lose To Cincinnati Reds

Boston falls 3-2 despite strong outings from Connelly Early and Abreu

Mar. 29, 2026 at 10:50pm

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The Boston Red Sox fell to the Cincinnati Reds 3-2 on Sunday, despite a solid start from pitcher Connelly Early and a big game at the plate from outfielder Wilyer Abreu, who hit his second home run in as many games. The Reds rallied late with a two-run homer from Eugenio Suarez in the sixth inning to take the lead and hold on for the win.

Why it matters

The Red Sox are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season and get off to a strong start in 2026. While the loss is a setback, the performances of Early and Abreu provide some optimism for the team's future outlook.

The details

Connelly Early, making his first start of the 2026 season, pitched 5.1 strong innings, allowing 5 hits and 1 earned run while striking out 6 and walking 2. Reliever Greg Weissert took the loss after giving up a 2-run homer to Suarez in the 6th inning. Wilyer Abreu continued his hot start, going 3-for-4 with a 2-run homer and a double. Connor Wong also had a multi-hit game for the Red Sox.

  • The game was played on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
  • Connelly Early made his first start of the 2026 season.
  • Wilyer Abreu hit his second home run in as many games.

The players

Connelly Early

A starting pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who had a strong outing in the loss, going 5.1 innings and allowing just 1 earned run.

Wilyer Abreu

An outfielder for the Boston Red Sox who had a big game at the plate, going 3-for-4 with a 2-run homer and a double.

Greg Weissert

A relief pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who took the loss after giving up a 2-run homer in the 6th inning.

Eugenio Suarez

A player for the Cincinnati Reds who hit a 2-run homer in the 6th inning to give the Reds the lead.

Connor Wong

A catcher for the Boston Red Sox who had a multi-hit game, going 2-for-3 with a double.

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What they’re saying

“Connelly really gave us a great start today, it's just unfortunate we couldn't hold on for the win.”

— Alex Cora, Red Sox Manager

“I'm just trying to contribute any way I can. It's a long season and we'll bounce back from this one.”

— Wilyer Abreu, Red Sox Outfielder

What’s next

The Red Sox will head to Houston to take on the Astros in a 3-game series starting on Monday, March 30th. Ranger Suarez is set to make his Red Sox debut on the mound in the series opener.

The takeaway

While the Red Sox came up short in this game, the strong performances from young players like Connelly Early and Wilyer Abreu provide hope that the team is headed in the right direction and can bounce back from last season's disappointment.