Reds Rally in 11th to Earn First Win Over Red Sox

Cincinnati overcomes late Boston comeback to take series opener in extra innings

Mar. 29, 2026 at 12:25am

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The Cincinnati Reds defeated the Boston Red Sox 6-5 in 11 innings on Saturday, earning their first win of the 2026 season. Dane Myers drove in the winning run with a single in the 11th after the Red Sox had tied the game in the 9th to force extras. The game featured several controversial calls by the home plate umpire that were overturned by the new automated ball-strike system.

Why it matters

This early-season matchup between two historic franchises showcases the high drama and intensity of Major League Baseball, with the Reds looking to bounce back from a tough start and the Red Sox aiming to build on their success from last year. The game also highlights the impact of new technologies like the automated ball-strike system on the sport.

The details

The Reds jumped out to a 4-1 lead thanks to home runs from Sal Stewart and Elly De La Cruz, but the Red Sox rallied to tie it 5-5 in the 9th on a solo shot by Wilyer Abreu. In the 11th inning, Dane Myers drove in automatic runner TJ Friedl with the winning run to give the Reds their first victory. Cincinnati reliever Connor Phillips earned the win, while Boston's Justin Slaten took the loss.

  • The game was played on Saturday, March 29, 2026 in Cincinnati.
  • The Reds and Red Sox were playing the second game of their season-opening series.

The players

Dane Myers

The Reds outfielder delivered the game-winning hit in the 11th inning.

TJ Friedl

The Reds outfielder scored the winning run in the 11th inning as the automatic runner.

Connor Phillips

The Reds relief pitcher earned the win with 1.2 scoreless innings in the 10th and 11th.

Justin Slaten

The Red Sox relief pitcher took the loss after allowing the game-winning hit in the 11th.

Wilyer Abreu

The Red Sox outfielder hit the game-tying home run in the 9th inning.

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What they’re saying

“We knew it was going to be a battle all day, but the guys kept fighting and found a way to get it done in the end. That's the kind of grit and determination this team has.”

— David Bell, Reds Manager

“Tough one to swallow, but we'll bounce back. Hats off to the Reds, they played a great game and earned the win fair and square.”

— Alex Cora, Red Sox Manager

What’s next

The Reds and Red Sox will play the rubber match of their three-game series on Sunday afternoon in Cincinnati.

The takeaway

This extra-inning thriller showcased the high level of competition and drama that fans can expect throughout the 2026 MLB season, with new technologies like the automated ball-strike system adding an extra layer of intrigue to the on-field action.