Game result and context
St. Louis Cardinals defeat Cincinnati Reds 10-9 in 2026 regular season matchup
In a back-and-forth battle, the St. Louis Cardinals secured a 10-9 victory over the Cincinnati Reds. The game was defined by a massive ninth inning where both teams combined for 10 runs, ultimately favoring the Cardinals to move their record to 66-63.
Final result
The St. Louis Cardinals defeated the Cincinnati Reds with a final score of 10-9. The game concluded after nine innings of play on August 20, 2026.
The Cardinals scored one run in the first inning, three in the third, and six in the ninth. The Reds were held scoreless until a five-run sixth inning, followed by four runs in the ninth.
Key performances
Jordan Walker led the Cardinals' offense, recording one hit, two runs, and four RBIs, including a three-run home run in the third inning. José Fermín contributed two hits and two RBIs, while Alec Burleson added one hit and one RBI.
For the Reds, Matt McLain provided a significant spark with a grand slam in the sixth inning, finishing the game with four RBIs. Sal Stewart also contributed to the effort with one hit and two RBIs.
On the mound, Cardinals pitcher Michael McGreevy worked 5.1 innings, allowing three earned runs and striking out four batters.
Season and playoff context
Following this game, the St. Louis Cardinals hold a 66-63 record, placing them third in their division and fifth in the wild-card standings, 2.5 games back. Their elimination number stands at 21 for the division and 32 for the wild card.
The Cincinnati Reds fall to 61-67 on the season. They currently rank fifth in their division and eighth in the wild-card race, sitting 7.0 games back of a wild-card spot with an elimination number of 17 for the division and 28 for the wild card.
This matchup was the fifth game of a five-game regular season series.