What happened: Matt McLain and Tyler Stephenson sparked the Cincinnati Reds with back-to-back home runs during the third inning of Sunday's matchup. McLain led off the frame with a solo drive to center field, followed immediately by Stephenson’s solo shot to right.
Why it matters: The consecutive home runs gave Cincinnati an early advantage in a key divisional battle against St. Louis. These blasts represent the seventh home run of the season for McLain and the fifth for Stephenson, providing a significant boost to the Reds' offensive production.
By the numbers: Matt McLain: solo HR (7), 3rd inning; Tyler Stephenson: solo HR (5), 3rd inning.
What to watch: The Reds seek to protect their lead as the game enters the middle innings. St. Louis will look to its bullpen to stabilize the contest after the early power display.