Reds Overpower Mets 5-3 with Early Offensive Surge

CINCINNATI (AP) — In a commanding display, Sal Stewart launched a three-run home run and Spencer Steer contributed a solo shot during a four-run first inning, leading the Cincinnati Reds to a 5-3 victory over the New York Mets on Tuesday night. This game marked the return of Mets right-hander Kodai Senga, who had been sidelined due to injury.

Senga’s return was challenging, as he allowed four earned runs over four innings, walking four batters while striking out five. The Mets found themselves in a difficult position early on, with Stewart's homer—his 14th of the season—putting the Reds ahead 3-0 right out of the gate. Steer followed up with a solo home run, extending the Reds' lead to 4-0.

The Mets managed to score in the third inning thanks to Bo Bichette's RBI single, but they struggled to capitalize on opportunities, leaving the bases loaded in both the third and fourth innings against Reds pitcher Brady Singer, who gave up just one run on three hits over five innings.

Later, Edwin Arroyo doubled and eventually scored on a single by Stewart, increasing the Reds’ advantage to 5-1. The Mets responded in the sixth with Mark Vientos hitting a two-run homer that sailed into the second deck of the left-field bleachers, narrowing the gap to 5-3.

Despite having runners on first and second with no outs in the eighth, the Mets could not convert, as Tejay Antone retired the next three batters. In a tense moment, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza was ejected after a dispute with the umpire following a walk. The Mets will look to rebound in the series finale on Wednesday, with RHP Nolan McLean set to face LHP Nick Lodolo.