Wed Sep 18 02:22:00 UTC 2024: ## Braves Blow Four-Run Lead, Fall to Reds in Costly Loss
**Cincinnati, OH** – The Atlanta Braves suffered a disappointing 6-5 loss to the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday night, dropping their third game in a row. Despite home runs from Michael Harris II and Matt Olson, the Braves couldn’t hold onto a four-run lead, ultimately falling to the Reds who had previously swept a four-game series against them earlier this year.
Atlanta got off to a hot start with Harris launching a leadoff homer in the first inning, followed by Olson’s 26th home run of the season, extending their lead to 3-0. Jorge Soler added another run with his 19th homer in the fourth, putting the Braves ahead 5-1.
However, the Reds rallied back, scoring two runs in the bottom of the fourth and two more in the sixth to tie the game. Spencer Steer, who has been a standout performer for the Reds, hit a go-ahead home run in the seventh, giving Cincinnati a 6-5 lead. Steer is the first Reds player since 1996 to achieve 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases in the same season, a feat he shares with his teammate Elly De La Cruz.
The Braves, who left 14 runners on base, couldn’t capitalize on their scoring opportunities. The loss leaves them two games behind the New York Mets for the third National League wild card spot.
The Reds, now 4-0 against the Braves this year, showcased their resilience and offensive prowess in the victory. They are now positioned for a strong finish to the season.
First Piper 