Oneil Cruz powers Pirates to 8-3 win over Reds

Slugger hits two home runs in bounce-back performance for Pittsburgh

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:35pm

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Oneil Cruz had a career day at the plate, hitting two home runs and driving in three runs to lead the Pittsburgh Pirates to an 8-3 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday night. The young slugger, who had struggled early in the season, broke out with a 444-foot solo shot in the fourth inning and a 403-foot two-run blast in the ninth to power the Pirates' offense.

Why it matters

Cruz's performance was a much-needed boost for the Pirates, who are relying on the 24-year-old outfielder to be a key part of their lineup this season. After a disappointing start, this breakout game could be the spark that ignites Cruz and the Pittsburgh offense.

The details

Cruz, who entered the game batting just .167 with two hits and eight strikeouts, got the Pirates on the board in the second inning with a single that loaded the bases. Nick Yorke then hit a sacrifice fly to give Pittsburgh a 1-0 lead. In the fourth, Cruz crushed a solo home run 444 feet off Reds starter Brandon Williams to extend the lead to 6-1. He then added a two-run shot in the ninth off reliever Pierce Johnson to cap the scoring.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, April 1, 2026.
  • Cruz's first home run came in the top of the fourth inning.
  • His second home run was hit in the top of the ninth inning.

The players

Oneil Cruz

A 24-year-old outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates who is considered one of the team's top young talents.

Brandon Williams

The starting pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds, who gave up Cruz's first home run of the game.

Pierce Johnson

A relief pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds, who gave up Cruz's second home run of the game.

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What they’re saying

“When Oneil is locked in like that, he can be a game-changer for us. This is the kind of performance we know he's capable of, and we're hoping it's a sign of things to come this season.”

— Derek Shelton, Manager, Pittsburgh Pirates

What’s next

The Pirates and Reds will wrap up their three-game series on Wednesday afternoon, with Paul Skenes scheduled to take the mound for Pittsburgh.

The takeaway

Oneil Cruz's breakout game against the Reds could be a turning point for the young Pirates star, who has been under pressure to produce after a slow start. If Cruz can build on this performance, it could be a sign of good things to come for a Pittsburgh team looking to make noise in the NL Central.