Reds Ride Big Homers to Series-Opening Win Over Giants

Brady Singer outduels Robbie Ray as Cincinnati takes the first game of the series

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:08am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic action of a baseball game, with players and the field reduced to abstract shapes and colors.A cubist interpretation of the Reds' series-opening win, capturing the raw energy and movement of the game.Cincinnati Today

The Cincinnati Reds defeated the San Francisco Giants 2-1 in the series opener, powered by solo home runs from Spencer Steer and rookie Sal Stewart. Reds starter Brady Singer delivered a strong six-inning outing, allowing just one run on a Willy Adames solo shot. The win snaps a recent skid for the Reds, who have struggled with consistent offense for much of the past three seasons.

Why it matters

The Reds have dealt with a rash of injuries to key pitchers like Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo, making Brady Singer's performance all the more crucial. Rookie Sal Stewart has emerged as an offensive bright spot, providing a much-needed boost to a lineup that has lacked consistent production.

The details

Brady Singer tossed six innings of one-run ball, bouncing back from a shaky start to the season. The only blemish on his outing was a solo home run by Willy Adames in the fifth inning. Meanwhile, the Reds' offense was quiet for most of the game before Spencer Steer and Sal Stewart each launched solo shots to provide the winning margin.

  • The Reds and Giants will continue their series on Wednesday, April 16, 2026 at 6:40 pm ET.
  • Brady Singer exited the game in the sixth inning with an apparent injury, the severity of which is still unknown.

The players

Brady Singer

The Reds' starting pitcher, who delivered a much-needed strong outing, tossing six innings of one-run ball.

Sal Stewart

The Reds' rookie slugger, who hit a solo home run and is leading the team in several offensive categories.

Willy Adames

The Giants' leadoff hitter, who hit a solo home run off Brady Singer in the fifth inning.

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What’s next

The Reds will look to clinch the series on Wednesday, April 16, 2026 when they send Rhett Lowder to the mound against former Red Tyler Mahle.

The takeaway

This win provides a much-needed boost for the Reds, who have dealt with a rash of injuries to their pitching staff. The emergence of rookie Sal Stewart has been a bright spot, and the team will need continued strong performances from their pitching staff to stay competitive in the NL Central.