Blake Dunn's Late Heroics Propel Reds to 4-3 Victory Over Royals

CINCINNATI (AP) — In a thrilling finish on Tuesday night, Blake Dunn delivered a walk-off single in the 10th inning, bringing home Spencer Steer to secure a 4-3 victory for the Cincinnati Reds against the Kansas City Royals. Steer showcased his power by hitting two home runs, while Will Benson contributed a crucial solo shot in the ninth inning to tie the game. Despite only recording four hits throughout the night, the Reds managed to clinch the win.

The Royals had a slim 3-2 lead when Benson, coming off the bench, launched a homer off Royals closer Lucas Erceg, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. In the 10th, Kansas City had a chance to regain control with runners on first and third and only one out, but Jac Caglianone's line drive was caught at shortstop, and Brock Burke struck out Kyle Isbel to extinguish the threat.

Royals left-hander Noah Cameron delivered an impressive performance, allowing just one hit—Steer's solo homer in the fifth inning—while striking out eight batters without issuing any walks over seven innings. Despite the strong outing, Kansas City has struggled in games started by Cameron this season, losing eight of his ten starts.

Andrew Abbott, starting for the Reds, had a solid run with a 1.85 ERA in his previous six outings but faced challenges in the fourth inning, where he allowed all three earned runs on five hits. The Royals capitalized on this inning, with Caglianone's groundout bringing in the first run, followed by Michael Massey’s two-run single.

Steer’s second home run in the eighth inning off Matt Strahm narrowed the gap to 3-2, marking his fourth career game with multiple home runs. The series continues as Royals right-hander Stephen Kolek (3-1, 3.48 ERA) is set to face Reds right-hander Chase Burns (7-1, 1.96) in the finale on Wednesday.