For a second straight spring training game, the Reds scored 10 or more runs as, Wednesday night, they defeated the Brewers 12-8.
Cincy Opening Day starter Tyler Mahle pitched the first two innings against the Brew Crew. He allowed one run on two hits and a walk with three strikeouts.
Elly De La Cruz drove in four runs on a grand salami to break an 8-8 tie in the eighth inning and TJ Friedl also hit a solo shot for the game’s first run.
The Reds have had a couple of notable injuries as of late. While not believed to be serious, previously projected opening day starter Luis Castillo is likely to miss the first rotation of the regular season due to a right shoulder issue.
Lucas Sims, who is expected to be a major part of the bullpen will start the season on the injured list due to illness and back spasms from the offseason. Those issues have him behind schedule on ramping up his throwing.
And Jose Barerro was expected to compete for a starting job at shortstop. He had surgery Tuesday to repair a broken wrist.
The Reds have signed free agent outfielder Tommy Pham. The 34-year-old had three goods seasons from 2017-2019 with St. Louis and Tampa Bay. He only played in 31 games in 2020 due to a broken hand. And in 2021, he came back after being physically assaulted during the offseason where he was stabbed and required 200 stitches. Pham hit .229 with a .724 OPS.