Reds Overpower Giants 8-3 Behind Stewart's Two Home Runs

Cincinnati slugger Sal Stewart drives in six runs with a pair of three-run homers in statement win.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 6:05am

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An abstract, energetic painting in vibrant neon colors, capturing the powerful swings and home run celebrations of Cincinnati Reds players in motion, with no identifiable faces or logos.The Reds' offense erupted with a barrage of long balls, led by Sal Stewart's two three-run homers, in a statement win over the Giants.Cincinnati Today

The Cincinnati Reds cruised to an 8-3 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday night, powered by a breakout performance from slugger Sal Stewart. Stewart blasted two three-run home runs, driving in a total of six runs to lead the Reds' offensive onslaught. Eugenio Suárez and Elly De La Cruz also contributed with solo home runs as Cincinnati jumped out to an early lead and never looked back.

Why it matters

The win marks a statement performance for the Reds, who have struggled to find consistency so far this season. Stewart's big night provides a boost of confidence for the young slugger, while Suárez's homer moves him up the franchise's all-time home run list, further cementing his legacy in Cincinnati.

The details

The Reds wasted no time setting the tone, jumping out to a 4-0 lead in the first inning after Stewart's first three-run shot was immediately followed by a solo blast from Suárez. The Giants responded with a two-run double in the second, but Stewart struck again with his second three-run homer to extend Cincinnati's advantage. De La Cruz added an impressive 442-foot solo homer to cap the Reds' offensive outburst. On the mound, Rhett Lowder earned the win, allowing three runs over 6 2/3 innings.

  • The Reds jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the first inning on Wednesday, April 16, 2026.
  • Stewart hit his first three-run homer in the first inning on April 16, 2026.
  • Suárez hit his solo home run immediately after Stewart's first homer on April 16, 2026.
  • Stewart hit his second three-run homer later in the game on April 16, 2026.
  • De La Cruz hit his 442-foot solo homer on April 16, 2026.

The players

Sal Stewart

A young Cincinnati Reds slugger who delivered a career night, blasting two three-run home runs and driving in six runs to lead the Reds' offensive surge.

Eugenio Suárez

A veteran Reds infielder who hit a solo home run in the first inning, adding another milestone to his return stint with the club.

Elly De La Cruz

A rising star for the Reds who hit a towering 442-foot solo home run, continuing his strong offensive presence.

Rhett Lowder

The Reds' starting pitcher who earned the win, allowing three runs over 6 2/3 innings and keeping the Giants in check long enough for the offense to take control.

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What they’re saying

“We came out swinging tonight and never let up. Sal was locked in and really set the tone for us early on.”

— David Bell, Reds Manager

What’s next

The Reds will look to build on this momentum as they continue their series against the Giants on Thursday, April 17, 2026.

The takeaway

This win showcases the Reds' offensive firepower and the potential of their young core, led by Stewart's breakout performance. If Cincinnati can sustain this level of production, they could emerge as a serious contender in the NL Central race.