Cruz Hits Two Homers in Pirates' Win Over Reds

Oneil Cruz and Ryan O'Hearn power Pittsburgh to victory in Cincinnati

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:08pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Cincinnati Reds 8-3 on Tuesday night, led by two home runs from Oneil Cruz and a three-run shot from Ryan O'Hearn. O'Hearn and Bryan Reynolds also hit back-to-back homers in the second inning to power the Pirates' offense.

Why it matters

This win continues the Pirates' strong start to the 2026 season as they look to compete in the NL Central division. Oneil Cruz's power display demonstrates his potential as a rising star in the league.

The details

Oneil Cruz hit two home runs for the Pirates, while Ryan O'Hearn added a three-run shot. O'Hearn and Bryan Reynolds also went back-to-back in the second inning to give the Pirates an early lead they would not relinquish.

  • The game took place on Tuesday, April 1, 2026.

The players

Oneil Cruz

A young slugger for the Pittsburgh Pirates who hit two home runs in the game.

Ryan O'Hearn

A Pirates player who hit a three-run home run in the game.

Bryan Reynolds

A Pirates player who hit a back-to-back home run with Ryan O'Hearn.

Pittsburgh Pirates

The baseball team that defeated the Cincinnati Reds 8-3.

Cincinnati Reds

The baseball team that lost to the Pittsburgh Pirates 8-3.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The Pirates' offensive outburst, led by the power hitting of Oneil Cruz and Ryan O'Hearn, demonstrates the team's potential to be a contender in the NL Central this season.