UPDATE: In a stunning display of pitching, Hunter Greene delivered a remarkable one-hitter, leading the Cincinnati Reds to a thrilling 1-0 victory over the Chicago Cubs on August 31, 2023. The win keeps the Reds firmly in the race for the National League wild card, now just two games behind the New York Mets.
This victory is crucial as the Reds aim to secure their postseason berth. The Mets, who beat the San Diego Padres 6-1 earlier in the evening, remain the team to catch. The intensity of the wild card chase is palpable, heightening the stakes for every game as the season progresses.
Greene, who improved his record to 7-4, showcased exceptional skill on the mound, striking out nine batters and walking just one in his first career nine-inning shutout. He retired the first twelve batters he faced, and after allowing an error in the fifth inning, he regained his composure to close out the game with a strikeout of Nico Hoerner and Ian Happ.
The only run of the game came in the fourth inning when Will Benson drove in Austin Hays with a clutch double. This offensive effort was enough to secure the win against a formidable Cubs team, which had clinched a postseason spot with an 8-4 victory against the Pittsburgh Pirates the previous night. However, the Cubs still seek to secure home-field advantage in the wild-card round.
Cubs starter Colin Rea also had an impressive outing, recording a career-high 11 strikeouts while not allowing a single walk in his seven innings of work.
The playoff race is heating up as both teams strive for postseason glory. Fans of the Reds will be keeping a close eye on the Mets’ upcoming games, as every matchup could determine their playoff fate. With only a few weeks left in the regular season, the urgency is palpable in Cincinnati.
As the Reds prepare for their next challenge, the excitement surrounding Greene’s performance adds a thrilling chapter to the team’s quest for a wild card spot. Baseball enthusiasts and supporters alike will be eagerly watching the developments in the coming days.