BREAKING: The Cincinnati Reds stunned the Milwaukee Brewers with a dramatic 3-2 victory in extra innings on July 16, 2023, effectively halting the Brewers’ franchise-record winning streak at 14 games. This marks a pivotal moment in the MLB season, as it not only ends the Brewers’ impressive run but also showcases the Reds’ resilience.
In an electrifying 10th inning, Austin Hays delivered the game-winning single, driving in designated runner TJ Friedl after Spencer Steer’s sacrifice bunt advanced him to third. This win is particularly significant, as it demonstrates the Reds’ ability to compete at a high level, especially against a team that has displayed remarkable tenacity throughout the past two weeks.
The Brewers, who had previously staged remarkable comebacks—including overcoming a seven-run deficit just days earlier—nearly pulled off another last-minute victory. With William Contreras hitting his 13th home run of the season, Milwaukee took a brief lead in the ninth inning. However, Cincinnati fought back, tying the game after an error by shortstop Joey Ortiz allowed Will Benson to reach base, ultimately leading to Jose Trevino‘s clutch single.
This loss is a rare setback for Milwaukee, which has seen an impressive record of 53-17 over the past 70 games. The defeat also marks their 14th blown save this season, ranking among the lowest in the league, according to ESPN Research.
Throughout the game, Reds’ left-hander Andrew Abbott and Brewers’ ace Jose Quintana kept the scoreboard quiet, combining for six hits and 11 strikeouts through the first six innings. Cincinnati’s breakthrough came in the seventh inning when Hays led off with a double, setting the stage for Trevino’s sacrifice fly.
With this victory, the Reds maintain a unique achievement as the only team in Major League Baseball that has not been swept in a series all season. Their streak of 40 series without a sweep is now the longest in franchise history, surpassing the previous record of 32 set in 1970.
Looking ahead, the Brewers will send right-hander Freddy Peralta (14-5, 2.90 ERA) to the mound against the Chicago Cubs on Monday, while the Reds will feature right-hander Brady Singer (10-9, 4.31 ERA) facing the Angels in Anaheim.
This stunning upset not only alters the trajectory of both teams but also amplifies the competitive spirit of the MLB season. Fans will undoubtedly be watching closely as these teams head into their next games.
