Cincinnati Reds can’t complete sweep of A’s

After squeaking out two victories to open the series against the Oakland A’s, the Cincinnati Reds couldn’t complete the sweep.

The Reds’ luck ran out on Sunday, as they weren’t able to overcome meager offensive production for a third game in a row against the Athletics, falling 6-1. However, they did come away with their third win in their last four series, which is a step in the right direction after the month of May saw them lose every single series.

Hot streak ends

John Lamb had thrown 14 1/3 innings and allowed two runs in his previous two starts, but his momentum came to a halt on Sunday. The lefty was only able to get through four innings, allowing four runs, seven hits and two walks, while striking out just one. All of the damage against him came in the second inning, when he gave up a pair of two-run home runs, one to Marcus Semien and the other to Jake Smolinski.

Inability to capitalize

For a third straight game, the Reds’ offense was held in check by Oakland pitching. But they did have their opportunities against starter Kendall Graveman. Like his counterpart, the right-hander was knocked from the game after four innings, but the Reds had just one run to show for it, despite picking up seven hits and two walks. After Graveman was lifted from the contest, the Reds managed only one baserunner the remainder of the game, when Eugenio Suarez was hit by a pitch in the fifth inning.

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Smith providing needed relief

While the bullpen has largely struggled as a whole this season, middle relief has been arguably the biggest weakness. In Josh Smith, the Reds seem to have found some help. He came into the game after Lamb was pulled and was the lone bright spot from a pitching perspective for the Reds, giving up a lone hit and striking out three in two innings of work. In 6 2/3 innings, the 28-year-old has allowed just two runs on five hits and two walks, while striking out eight.

Notes:

• The Reds’ other relievers did not fare so well. A.J. Morris gave up a run and four hits in two innings, and J.C. Ramirez allowed a run and three hits in one inning.
• Steve Selsky made his first big-league start, getting the nod in center field. He went 1-for-3 with a single and the only Reds run of the day.
• Tyler Holt continued to provide value off the bench, this time with his arm. In the seventh inning, he threw out Jed Lowrie at second base as he was trying to stretch a single into a double.