The fifth inning changed everything. Cincinnati scored three times to erase a one-run deficit and defeat Houston 3-1 at Great American Ball Park, snapping an eight-game losing streak behind Chase Burns' steady pitching.
Burns allowed one run over six innings, scattering four hits while walking three and striking out two. The right-hander improved to 4-1 with a 2.11 ERA, working efficiently through 87 pitches to earn his fourth victory of the season.
Houston struck first when Braden Shewmake homered to right center in the fifth inning, a 388-foot blast that put the Astros ahead 1-0. The lead lasted only minutes. Matt McLain singled to left, scoring Will Benson and Spencer Steer to give Cincinnati a 2-1 advantage. Jose Trevino reached third on a throwing error by left fielder Zach Cole during the play. Elly De La Cruz followed with another single to left, bringing Trevino home for the final margin.
Spencer Arrighetti took the loss for Houston, allowing three runs in 5.2 innings. The left-hander gave up five hits and three walks while striking out five, but two errors by his defense contributed to his downfall. His ERA sits at 1.88 despite the defeat.
Cincinnati improved to 20-19 and moved out of last place in their division. Houston fell to 16-23, extending their struggles on the road.