Cincinnati Reds News & Notes 05/05/2026

The Cincinnati Reds currently hold a 20-15 record following a heartbreaker at Wrigley Field. Over the last 24 hours, the team saw their lead disappear late in the game. They lost 5-4 to the Chicago Cubs. This marked their fourth consecutive loss. All your Cincinnati Reds news & notes here!

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MLB Game Recap

After a 1-hour-and-40-minute thunderstorm delay, Cincinnati took an early lead. This was behind solo home runs from JJ Bleday and a two-run shot by Ke’Bryan Hayes. Recalled starter Chase Petty delivered 5.2 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, 1 K, 75 pitches (51 strikes) before the bullpen took over. Spencer Steer hit a go-ahead RBI single in the 8th. The turning point came in the bottom of the 9th. Emilio Pagán surrendered a game-tying sacrifice fly. Then, he allowed a two-out, walk-off solo home run to Michael Conforto.

Standout Performer

Elly De La Cruz provided a consistent offensive spark, finishing the night 3-for-4 with one walk. He was picked off first base early in the game. However, his three hits kept the pressure on Cubs starter Edward Cabrera. They helped set the table for the Reds’ middle-inning rallies. His performance raised his season average to .285 as he continues to profile as a primary NL MVP candidate.

Key News & Notes

The Reds executed multiple roster moves on Monday. They recalled right-hander Chase Petty for the spot start. They also optioned reliever Zach Maxwell to Triple-A Louisville. This follows Sunday’s announcement placing Pierce Johnson on the bereavement list and promoting outfielder Blake Dunn while optioning Rece Hinds. Manager Terry Francona noted that Petty has pitched significantly better with extra rest. This benefit dictated his early exit in Louisville last week. Looking ahead, Nick Lodolo will return from the injured list. He plans to make his season debut this Friday against the Astros.

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Farm Report

Triple-A: Nashville Sounds (17-16) vs. Louisville Bats (20-13)
Double-A: Chattanooga Lookouts (18-9) vs. Montgomery Biscuits (14-13)
High-A: Dayton Dragons (13-14) vs. West Michigan Whitecaps (12-15)
Single-A: Clearwater Threshers (16-11) vs. Daytona Tortugas (10-17)
Rookie: ACL Reds Yeycol Soriano went 2-2. He also had a walk and two runs scored in the 5-2 win over the ACL White Sox on Monday.

Looking Ahead

The Reds continue their divisional clash at Wrigley Field tonight at 7:40 PM ET. Southpaw Andrew Abbott (1-2, 5.97 ERA) will take the mound for Cincinnati against the Cubs’ Jameson Taillon (2-1, 4.41 ERA), who is coming off seven solid innings in his last start.

Four straight losses and a struggling bullpen are starting to overshadow a hot April start. What do you think?